Being a leader often means you have to be seen, both literally and figuratively. While you may prefer working behind the scenes with your team, there will inevitably be moments when you have to step in front and lead the way. This means being comfortable with not only being seen by your team but also with people outside your organisation, whether that’s meeting clients, leading discussions or delivering presentations. 

The human connection.

Being seen can be uncomfortable. It takes courage. As human beings, we are evolutionarily programmed to seek connection and acceptance, and putting yourself out there comes with the risk of rejection. Studies have shown that the pain of social disconnection is registered in the same part of the brain as the pain of physical injury (see the referenced academic paper to find out more)*. With the risk of emotional pain activating our brains, it’s no wonder that we want to avoid it at all costs. Yet connection and acceptance can only come from opening up to others and letting ourselves dare to be seen.

Overcome the fear.

To overcome this fear, it can be beneficial to do small things to expand your comfort zone, and do them consistently. This doesn’t mean you have to divulge everything about your personal life or give a lengthy presentation to hundreds of people. It is about taking small steps into the uncomfortable, being uncomfortable-enough. Maybe that’s speaking up more, or opening up just a little bit. Every time you dare to be seen, you expand your comfort zone and make it easier. To help push yourself out of your comfort zone, it can be helpful to remember why you are doing it, especially if you focus on the benefit it will bring to others.

For instance, our CEO Kirsty recently faced the challenge of filming content for our new online learning library. Kirsty had to put herself forward and be seen as the face of the courses, and the organisation, even though it wasn’t comfortable. As intimidating as it can be to put yourself out there, the benefits are worth it. In this case, the why was powerful enough for Kirsty to push through the discomfort - to allow employees throughout organisations to access the Firefly learning content which we know makes a huge difference. By focusing on the why, and knowing that every time she started filming it would get a little easier, Kirsty was able to push through this barrier and put herself out there to be seen.

You might have come up against examples in your own work including networking events, to forge new partnerships and expand your company’s network or media interviews, where you need to effectively promote your company’s image. Facing these opportunities not only broadens your comfort zone, it sets a powerful example for your team. It inspires others to push beyond their comfort zones and to grow as both employees and individuals.

Are you willing to be seen?

Now might be a good time to reflect on how willing you are to be seen. Are there any instances where you choose to hide because it feels more comfortable? What impact does that have on your business and the people around you? And how might it benefit others if you put yourself out there to be seen?

Research by Dr Brené Brown shows that vulnerability where we face risk, uncertainty and emotional exposure, is a foundational way to build trust and strengthen our relationships with others.

As humans, we thrive on connecting with one another, and by being your authentic self and allowing yourself to be seen, you open up the door to those connections. You allow people to relate to you, and understand you better. This willingness to step forward and be seen develops key leadership qualities like resilience and adaptability. By leading authentically, you not only inspire others but also empower them to embrace their true selves, fostering a culture of authenticity and growth.

*link to the survey