Hope Timberlake’s Post

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Speak up to become an influential leader & drive performance | Keynote Speaker, Advisor and Author | Trusted by leaders and teams at companies including BlackRock, Gap, Salesforce, Tripadvisor

Dear Introverts, Are you feeling anxious about an upcoming holiday party? You’re not alone! Many introverts find the pressure to engage in small talk and socialize with large groups quite daunting. The expectation to initiate or keep conversations flowing can be exhausting, especially when interactions often feel superficial. To help you navigate these social gatherings, here are three effective ways to spark conversations: 1. Compliment Attire A compliment is a fantastic icebreaker! Many attendees thoughtfully design their outfits, particularly when there’s a theme. A sincere compliment about someone’s attire can lead to a lighthearted discussion about fashion choices or holiday traditions. 2. Discuss Holiday Plans Asking about holiday plans is another friendly way to engage others. Invite people to share their traditions, travel plans, or favorite holiday activities, fostering a personal connection without straying into work-related topics. 3. My favorite conversation starter is, “What are you currently enjoying?” This could reference hobbies like pickleball, interesting books, or favorite TV shows. Most importantly, once the party is over or you’re ready to escape, don’t forget to recharge your social battery! Plan some quiet time to recover from all the social interaction. Engaging in relaxing activities you enjoy will replenish your energy and prevent an "introvert hangover." Happy mingling, and remember to take care of yourself! Cheering you on, Hope PS. This is a pic from my cousin’s wedding in Cartagena (it was REALLY hot!) Can you tell how badly I'm sweating?!

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Janice Litvin

Burnout Speaker: Banking, STEM, HR, IT (Technology). Author: Banish Burnout Toolkit.

2d

Love your suggestions. Happy holidays Hope Timberlake

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Hope, you are giving hope to people...

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Kathy Klotz-Guest MA, MBA

🚀 Bold Beyond Boundaries™, Interactive Keynote Speaker | Bolder leaders, breakthrough innovation thru humor | MC, Author, Comms | 20 yrs sparking bold team cultures, ideas, stories in tech + 25 years on comedy stages

1w

You look amazing!!!

Tenten Wu

Brand Strategist, Marketing & Communications Specialist

1w

Perfect dress for a Cartagena wedding! You look GREAT!

Ali Dunn, CPCC

Enneagram Expert | Team Builder | Dynamic Speaker | Leadership Coach for Female Founders and Professionals

1w

Great tips!

Kristina Paider

Book + Speech Doctor l Development Editor l Writing Coach

1w

Hope Timberlake superb advice, as always. Thank you!! 🩷

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