[Part 1] Taking advantage of ‘hot seat opportunities’

I admit it.

Walking into the big empty room, I contemplated if I had enough guts to sit in the front row. But not for long.

Even though my business was really new and no one knew who I was, I confidently strolled down each step and secured a seat in the middle of the very first row.

“The hot seat!”

As the room filled up, the Annual Conference on African American History and Culture Conference attendees avoided the front row like it was the stinky pot. I asked myself, “did I make the wrong decision?” Sure didn’t!

Eventually, the presenters came and made their way to the front row beside me. So, I spent my time meeting and interacting with them before they went to the stage.

“Power moves!”

Historic Commissioner Tim Walker sat right beside me. We exchanged cards and he promised to reach out about a future opportunity. Some of the people who cycled in and out of the front row were Mayor Megan Barry, civil rights leader Gloria Mckissack and other dope folks.

You see?

Most people avoid the hot seat. It’s the place in the room that makes you feel the most uncomfortable. Typically, it’s a place where you feel like everyone will be judging you (and they probably will but so what). Or it’s next to someone who looks different.

From today forward, instead of avoiding that spot, identify it. And then walk to it like it was specifically reserved for you.

Why?

Because that’s where the opportunity lies.

After the event: 

1. Track your leads.
2. Email your leads. 
3. Add your leads to an email followup rotation.

How I Became One Of The Youngest Historical Commissioners

[Part 1]  Taking advantage of ‘hot seat opportunities’

[Part 2] Addressing racial ignorance by turning adversity into opportunity

[Part 3] Overcoming imposter syndrome

[Part 4] Getting a seat at the table

[Part 5] Becoming a board member for leading organizations

[Part 6] Creating award-winning Nashville tours

[Part 7] Interviewing with Nashville council members

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