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Kathryn Janicek

How Focusing on Your Health and Wellness Makes You a Better Leader

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How focusing on health and wellness can make you a better leader

When we think of success, we often picture hard work, long hours, and a relentless drive to accomplish more. For many, that image includes putting their health, relationships, and personal well-being on the back burner. But here’s the truth: Success isn’t about how much you can grind—it’s about how well you can sustain your performance over time.

This came up during a recent executive coaching session. I was working with a leader who was putting in 70-hour weeks. He was visibly hunched over with back pain, and when I asked about his goals, he mentioned building a strong team and achieving success. But his body language told a different story—one of exhaustion, discomfort, and stress.

I told him what I’m going to tell you now: Success isn’t sustainable if your body and mind are running on empty.

The Link Between Physical Health and Mental Clarity

Your body and mind are deeply connected. Chronic pain, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and unrelenting stress can cloud your thinking, drain your energy, and diminish your effectiveness as a leader. When you’re in physical discomfort, your brain diverts energy to managing that pain, leaving less bandwidth for critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making.

On the flip side, when you prioritize your health, you’re sharper, more focused, and better equipped to handle the challenges of leadership. A healthy body supports a resilient mind, and resilience is the cornerstone of long-term success. Strong leaders know that taking care of their bodies is not an indulgence—it’s a leadership necessity.

Why Overworking Is a Recipe for Burnout

Society glorifies the hustle, but let’s be honest: Overworking isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a fast track to burnout. Working 70, 80, or even more hours a week might give you a short-term boost in productivity, but the long-term consequences can be devastating:

  • Health issues like chronic pain, high blood pressure, and fatigue.
  • Decreased productivity due to lack of focus and poor decision-making.
  • Strained relationships as personal connections take a backseat.
  • Loss of creativity because your mind is too overloaded to think outside the box.

Success isn’t about how many hours you work; it’s about the quality of those hours. When you’re well-rested, healthy, and present, you accomplish more in less time and with greater impact.

Strong Leaders Practice Self-Care and Focus on Their Health & Wellness to  Sharpen Their Leadership

If you’re ready to break free from the cycle of overworking and start thriving, here are actionable steps to take to make you a more focused leader:

1. Move Every Day.

You don’t need to spend hours in the gym, but regular movement is non-negotiable. Take a 20-minute walk, try yoga, or do some basic stretching. Even 10 minutes of light exercise can boost your mood and energy.

2. See the Doctor.

Many men avoid regular checkups, but catching potential health issues early can save you time, money, and pain down the line. Schedule your annual physical, and don’t ignore nagging aches or pains.

3. Fuel Your Body.

Food is fuel. Eating balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can give you the energy you need to lead effectively. Avoid the temptation of quick fixes like fast food and energy drinks—they’ll only slow you down in the long run.

4. Set Boundaries.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of being available 24/7, but setting clear work boundaries is essential. Decide when your workday ends, and stick to it. Use that extra time to recharge and connect with loved ones.

5. Sleep well, lead better..

Sleep is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night, and give yourself permission to take breaks during the day. Rest allows your mind and body to recover, so you can perform at your best.

6. FIND YOUR FRIENDS.

When was the last time you connected with your old friends? We are a culture of loneliness, and it’s killing us. Spending time with family and friends isn’t just good for your relationships—it’s good for YOU. 

7. Delegate and Empower Your Team.

Leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself—it’s about building a team you trust to share the load. By delegating responsibilities, you free up time to focus on strategy, vision, and your own well-being.

When you’re at your best, you’re unstoppable

Men often feel pressure to provide, to succeed, and to shoulder the weight of responsibility. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s smart. It’s what allows you to show up fully for your work, your family, and your own goals.

You have permission to feel good, to take time for yourself, and to prioritize your health. Because when you’re at your best, you’re unstoppable.

At Janicek Performance Group, we help leaders like you develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to thrive in high-pressure environments. Whether you’re working on public speaking, media training, or executive leadership, we’ll guide you to align your personal well-being with your professional goals. Ready to start your journey? Let’s connect.

The Best Times to Email Journalists with Your Story

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What does it take to land your story in the news? A compelling pitch, certainly. But there’s one detail people often overlook: timing.

Recently, during a media training session with a client, they asked me a simple question:

“Is now a good time to email a journalist?”

 

It was a Friday afternoon, and I immediately said:

“Absolutely not!”

Timing is everything when it comes to pitching journalists. Reporters, TV producers, assignment editors, newspaper editors, anchors and all journalists receive hundreds of pitches a week – if not a day.

If your email arrives at the wrong moment, even the best story idea might get buried in a crowded inbox. But when you hit their inbox at the right time? That’s when the magic happens.

The Secret to Perfect Pitch Timing

Journalists’ days are structured around meetings that dictate what stories they’ll cover and how their resources will be allocated. By understanding their schedule, you can strategically time your email to grab their attention RIGHT BEFORE they walk into their planning meeting. I’ve run these meetings for years – and I know this kind of timing works.

Here are the two golden windows for emailing journalists:

  1. Before the Morning Meeting
     Newsrooms typically hold their first editorial meeting at 9:00 AM, where reporters discuss pitches and plan the day’s coverage. To get your story on their radar, email them between 7 AM and 8:30 AM. This timing ensures your pitch is fresh and top of mind when decisions are being made. Think of it as your chance to plant a seed in the perfect soil.
  2. Before the Afternoon Meeting
     Newsrooms regroup in the early afternoon to plan for the afternoon/evening shift and finalize coverage for the day. That meeting starts usually around 1:00 or 1:30 PM. Sending your email between 11:30 and 12:30 PM gives it a prime spot in their inbox just as they plan their afternoon assignments.

When to Avoid Sending Your Pitch

If you’ve ever sent a pitch on a Friday afternoon and wondered why you didn’t hear back, here’s the likely reason: it got lost.

The best public relations people know that if there’s bad news at your company – release it Friday afternoon. It won’t get as much attention as it would on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday afternoon. I’ve done this while consulting companies. It works. 

By Monday morning, your email is buried under hundreds of weekend messages. Unless your story is breaking news, avoid pitching on Fridays or Saturdays. If it’s urgent, skip email altogether and opt for a text or a direct message on social media instead.

Why Timing Matters More Than You Think

This dynamic isn’t just about logistics—it’s about respect and strategy. 

When you email journalists during their busiest or least productive times, your pitch feels like noise. But when you align with their natural workflow, your message stands out.

Think of it this way: the right pitch at the wrong time is a missed opportunity.

So, ask yourself:

  • Are you timing your emails to align with journalists’ decision-making windows?
  • Are you avoiding the email black hole of Friday afternoons and weekends?
  • Are you targeting the email black hole of Friday afternoon because you’re trying to BURY a bad news story?

By respecting their schedule, you increase the likelihood that your pitch will not only be read but also acted upon.

How to Land Your Story

Pitching journalists isn’t just about crafting the perfect email—it’s about strategy, timing, and understanding their world. When you combine those elements, your chances of getting coverage skyrocket.

At Janicek Performance Group, we bring you the insider secrets and tips I’ve gained from 25 years in TV to help you communicate with impact and position your brand for maximum visibility in the media. Whether it’s preparing your team for media interviews, keynotes, panels, board meetings, or other high-stakes moments, we equip you with the tools and strategies to shine. We’re the community YOU need to achieve your next big goals with confidence and clarity.

The Secret to Getting Your Story in the Media: A Strategy That Works

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In today’s fast-paced world, media exposure can be a game-changer for your brand. A single interview or media placement can thrust your company into the spotlight, driving significant results.

One business owner we trained before his national TV news interview, saw his product sell out in Target right after the interview!

So, how can you ensure your story catches the attention of journalists?

With so many pitches flooding their inboxes daily, journalists can easily overlook a story that doesn’t stand out. To break through the noise, our strategic approach is essential.

Getting your organization’s story in the news can do more than turn heads—it can transform your business. 

But here’s the catch: landing a media placement isn’t about luck. It’s about strategy.

If you’ve struggled to get journalists to pick up your story—whether on Giving Tuesday or any other day—let’s explore how to fix that.

  1. Don’t Spray and Pray
    Many people make the mistake of blasting their pitch to every journalist they can find, hoping something sticks. Here’s the truth: journalists receive hundreds of pitches weekly. If your pitch isn’t tailored or relevant, it will get lost in the noise.
  2. Treat Journalists Like Humans
    Journalists aren’t robots—they have likes, dislikes, and areas of expertise. Sending a pitch about your organic baby onesies to someone who doesn’t know what a “onesie” is will fall flat.

Instead, think about what makes your story a perfect fit for a particular journalist. For instance, I used to work with Ginger Zee, who’s passionate about climate change and sustainability. If your story is about revolutionizing recycling or finding reused holiday gifts, she’d likely want to hear it.

  1. Do Your Research
    Social media is your friend when it comes to understanding what a journalist cares about. Does their Instagram feed feature rescue pets? They might be interested in your “Why not give bunnies as Easter gifts” campaign. Are they obsessed with skincare? That reporter’s going to love your January story about the latest injectables and micro-needling – that’s your IN.

Why This Strategy Works

When you take the time to target your outreach, you’re showing journalists that you understand their interests and their audience. This not only increases your chances of getting a placement but also helps you build lasting relationships with the media.

So next time you’re preparing a pitch—whether it’s for Giving Tuesday or your next big launch—remember to be intentional. The right approach can change everything.

👋 Janicek Performance Group empowers leaders from the world’s most influential organizations, enhancing their power, presence, magnetism, and confidence. Our clients include corporations like AbbVie, UPS, McDonald’s, and Hard Rock International. We’ve partnered with institutions such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, The New York Blood Centers, and The American Dental Association.

Our communications training and coaching create more awareness, conversions and sales, investor interest and conversations, and ultimately more impact and better outcomes.

Schedule a 1:1 with us to learn more.

The Simple Trick To Achieving Your Goals

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What does it take to hit your biggest goals? Hard work and focus, sure. But there’s one factor we often overlook: the people we surround ourselves with.

I was in St. Croix recently to cheer on my husband during his open water swim race. It turned out to be an eye-opening reminder of a life lesson we all know but sometimes forget: the people you surround yourself with will profoundly impact your success.

If you’ve ever been in a room full of go-getters—whether it’s at a conference, a team meeting, or even a fitness class—you’ve felt it. The energy shifts. 

You push yourself harder. You accomplish things you didn’t think you could.

It’s no coincidence.

The Inspiration of Others

Ted did an amazing job in the race, taking third place in his male age group—something I couldn’t be prouder of him for! 

As I stood by watching the event – and really all weekend in the resort with the racers – I couldn’t help but notice something. Around me were men and women in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s swimming incredible distances—one, two-point-five, and even five miles. It was clear they weren’t just competing—they were growing. 

They leaned on each other, trained together, and found inspiration in each other’s journeys. The camaraderie, the shared focus, and the encouragement were palpable.

This wasn’t about swimming alone. It was about community.

What stood out wasn’t just their physical strength but the way they showed up for each other. They surrounded themselves with others who shared their goals and pushed each other to perform at their best.

Watching Ted and the other athletes reminded me of a simple truth: success isn’t a solo journey. Whether you’re diving into a swim race or leading a big project, your community matters.

This got me thinking: how can we bring that same energy into our professional lives?

How Community Shapes Success

This dynamic got me thinking about how much faster we achieve our own goals when we intentionally surround ourselves with people who inspire us. Whether it’s in fitness, career, or personal growth, the people in your life play a critical role in shaping your mindset, energy, and success.

Here’s why this works:

  1. Shared Focus: When you’re around others who are working toward the same goal, it’s easier to stay committed. It’s hard to skip a run or a project deadline when everyone around you is making progress.
  2. Built-In Accountability: The right people won’t let you quit when the going gets tough. They’ll remind you of your “why” and help you overcome obstacles.
  3. Inspiration Through Action: Seeing others succeed—especially those who’ve faced similar struggles—makes your goals feel achievable. If they can do it, why not you?
  4. Opportunities to Learn: When surrounded by successful people, you absorb their strategies, mindset, and secrets for success. It’s like shortcutting your journey.

If you’re serious about hitting your personal, professional, or physical goals, it’s time to take a good look at your circle. 

Are the people around you encouraging you to grow? 

Are they pushing you to aim higher? 

Or are they holding you back, even unintentionally?

Make the conscious choice to surround yourself with those who inspire you, challenge you, and walk alongside you on your journey. These are the people who will help you achieve your goals faster and with more joy.

Here’s how you can create an environment that helps you succeed:

  1. Find your community—Connect with people who’ve achieved what you’re working toward or who are striving for the same goals. Their journey can inspire your own.
  2. Learn from the best—Mentors, colleagues, or coaches can help you skip common mistakes and fast-track your success.
  3. Elevate your habits—Match the discipline and mindset of those you admire. Surround yourself with people who remind you of what’s possible.

Your environment shapes your success. We’re all capable of incredible things—especially when we surround ourselves with the right people. The question is: who’s in your corner?

Next time you plan a trip, a project, a company launch, or even a casual coffee date, consider this: who you bring along could make all the difference in your success.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in building high-performing leaders. From commanding a room in a media interview to growing as a leader, we give you the tools and strategies to rise to the next level. Join us—and see how far you can go with the right people by your side.

Managing Media Interview Requests & Building Journalist Relationships

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Imagine this: it’s Election Day, and news outlets are racing to cover the unfolding stories. Or maybe it’s a day when your industry is in the spotlight, and journalists are reaching out to connect with experts like you. Suddenly, there’s an email in your inbox—a request for an interview. But there’s a problem: your schedule is packed. Do you decline, or is there a way to keep the opportunity on the table?

When journalists seek out experts, it’s a prime moment for you and your organization to gain visibility and share insights. This is free PR—essentially free advertising for your expertise and your organization’s mission. But to seize this opportunity, you need to approach scheduling conflicts strategically.

Step 1: Don’t Ignore the Request

When you receive an interview request at a busy time, it might be tempting to delay your response or even ignore the message entirely. However, not replying is one of the fastest ways to miss out on current and future opportunities. Instead, acknowledge the request, even if you’re uncertain you can make the suggested time.

Step 2: Respond with Gratitude and Flexibility

If you truly can’t make the scheduled time, show your appreciation for the opportunity and express interest in accommodating the interview. Here’s an example of how to respond:

“Thank you so much for reaching out! I’d love to contribute, but I have a prior commitment at that time. I’m available [suggest alternate dates/times]. I hope one of these options works; if not, I’m happy to explore other ways I can be of assistance.”

This approach shows respect for the journalist’s timeline and signals that you’re eager to collaborate despite scheduling conflicts. Offering alternate times and expressing interest in future opportunities strengthens your rapport with the journalist.

Step 3: Be Prepared with a Backup Expert or Resource

If rescheduling isn’t an option, consider offering another credible source within your organization. Journalists appreciate when you suggest another qualified individual who can add value to their story.

“Unfortunately, I’m unavailable at that time, but I’d like to connect you with [name and title of colleague], who has similar insights on this topic.”

This provides the journalist with an alternative and showcases your commitment to contributing to the story.

Step 4: Keep Your Communication Timely and Clear

Respond to the journalist’s initial email as quickly as possible. Your prompt response indicates professionalism and reliability, essential qualities for being considered in future stories. 

Step 5: Continue Building Relationships for Future Opportunities

Even if you can’t make the interview, showing responsiveness and a willingness to help in some capacity goes a long way. Building relationships with journalists can lead to more media opportunities and help position you as a trusted resource in your field.

Don’t Let Scheduling Conflicts Hold You Back

Media interviews provide free, impactful exposure, helping you build credibility and visibility for your organization. By handling scheduling conflicts with professionalism and offering alternate solutions, you not only increase the likelihood of media coverage today but also position yourself as a reliable expert that journalists want to turn to in the future.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in preparing executives for media interviews, equipping you with the tools to make the most of every opportunity—even during busy times. Don’t miss out on building valuable connections and showcasing your expertise—start today by being prepared for the next request that comes your way!

How Authenticity Leads to Greater Leadership

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In a recent coaching session with 20 executives–all leaders in their industries–something stood out: many were still holding back. Despite their CVs and professional accolades, they weren’t speaking with their true voice. Instead, they were hiding parts of themselves—things they were told to suppress decades ago when they were young managers or starting out in their careers.

And it didn’t make them great speakers.

Here’s the thing: as a leader, when you hide who you are, people notice. Your team feels it. Your audience can sense it. Authenticity is critical to leadership. when you aren’t bringing your full self to the table, it weakens your message and your impact.

We’ve seen this a lot recently with spokespeople during major food recalls and in other crises. When the leader holds back – the audience thinks the company is not being transparent. 

Your staff won’t know you’re doing this. They will just notice you look scared, tight, nervous, and stiff. 

And the audience won’t trust you. 

Wall Street won’t either.

Why do we do this?

I’ve been there. When I was a young 20-something television producer in Minneapolis, I had a manager who told me my ideas came from my “first dates,” implying I wasn’t capable of generating my own creative thoughts. In my 30s, a manager in Chicago said I was being “too much myself.” I tried to tone it down, and it made me overly serious—too intense, not fun, and certainly not authentic.

We all encounter the pressure to conform, to mold ourselves into something that doesn’t feel authentic in our careers. But the truth is, when we hide parts of ourselves, we lose the very thing that makes us powerful leaders.

We coach executives in their 40s and 50s—men and women alike—who are still carrying the weight of these past criticisms. They’re still holding back their true voice, still editing their body language, still playing small because they were once told, “Don’t be so much yourself.”

Here’s the wake-up call: your audience needs you to be YOU.

Why Authenticity Matters in Leadership

Being authentic doesn’t just make you more relatable—it makes you more trustworthy, influential, and effective. When you lead as yourself, you set a powerful example for your team. You show them that it’s okay to bring their full selves to work. And in doing so, you create an environment where others feel empowered to speak up, share ideas, and lead confidently.

But authenticity isn’t just about being real. It’s about being strategic in how you present yourself and ensuring that your true voice comes across in every interaction.

Here Are Some Ways You Can Show Up Authentically:

  1. Acknowledge the Stories You’ve Been Told Start by identifying the limiting beliefs or stories you’re carrying with you. Were you told to “tone it down” early in your career? Were you advised to speak less or act differently? Recognizing these influences is the first step to releasing them.
  2. Embrace Your Unique Voice Stop trying to conform to what others expect of you. Instead, embrace what makes you you. Whether it’s your tone of voice, your body language, or the way you express ideas—lean into it. Authentic leaders don’t fit molds—they break them.
  3. Be Clear and Consistent in Your Message Authenticity doesn’t mean you say whatever comes to mind. Be thoughtful about your message and consistent in how you present yourself. Whether you’re leading a meeting, giving a presentation, or speaking in front of an audience, clarity and consistency build trust.
  4. Use Body Language that Matches Your Words Body language is key. If you’re holding back, your body will give you away. Practice open, confident gestures that align with your message. Your non-verbal communication should reinforce your words, not contradict them.
  5. Get Comfortable with Vulnerability Being authentic often means being vulnerable. It’s okay to admit mistakes, show emotion, or share personal stories. This doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human and relatable. Remember, leadership is about connection, and connection comes from being real.
  6. Remember: Your Team Can Tell Whether you realize it or not, your team knows when you’re not fully present or being yourself. If you’re hiding behind a mask, they feel it. Show up as the real you, and you’ll inspire others to do the same.

Putting it Into Practice

The next time you’re on stage, in a meeting, or in front of the camera, remind yourself: there’s only one YOU. And the world needs that version of you, not the filtered, toned-down, or second-guessed version.

Your authenticity is what will build trust, inspire your team, and create lasting influence. The more you practice showing up as your true self, the stronger your leadership will become. So, whether you’re giving a presentation or leading your team through a challenge, remember: be YOU, and watch the impact you create.

If you’re finding it hard to break free from the old narratives or the advice that’s been holding you back, consider this your sign to let go. Embrace the leader you are meant to be. Authenticity isn’t a buzzword—it’s the key to leading with confidence and connection.

Next time you find yourself holding back, ask: What would it look like if I brought my full self into this moment? Chances are, it’ll make all the difference.

Need help nailing down your authentic self? Reach out to Janicek Performance Group for help with your executive presence.

Master Media Interviews with These Executive Presentation Training Techniques

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Mistakes happen, and in the world of media training, nerves can sometimes take over. But did you know that in many cases, you can fix those mistakes with a simple retake?

Let me share a story from one of our recent executive media training sessions with a client preparing for a pre-recorded interview. During her first take, she was speeding up, getting lost in her words, and feeling like her message wasn’t coming across the way she wanted. She realized she wasn’t as understood as she had hoped. Her words felt rushed, and her nerves got the better of her. Sound familiar?

But here’s where the magic happened—she asked for a retake.

In her second take, she slowed down, enunciated her words, and commanded the interview with confidence. It was like night and day. She sounded clear, comfortable, and, most importantly, she communicated her expertise with impact.

Why Speed Hurts Your Message

When we’re nervous, it’s natural to speed up. Our thoughts race, and before we know it, we’re firing off words without pausing to breathe. The problem? When we speak too quickly, our message doesn’t land. In our professional media training sessions, we often find that speakers lose impact because they’re rushing through their points.

In our media training workshops—whether we’re working with individuals, athletes, or corporate executives—we emphasize slowing down and enunciating. It’s not about filling the time or rushing to the finish line; it’s about making sure every word is understood.

The Power of Self-Awareness

One of the biggest revelations during our training with the New York client was her realization that in a pre-recorded interview, she had the power to pause and ask for a retake. She told the interviewer, “Hey, I’d love to redo this if you don’t mind.”

Guess what? The journalist didn’t mind at all. In fact, they were grateful. Why? Because when you give yourself a moment to compose your thoughts, you give the journalist a better soundbite—one that will be more effective when aired.

This is a key insight we focus on during our media training courses—the importance of self-awareness in interviews. It’s about understanding that asking for a redo doesn’t reflect negatively on you. In fact, it shows confidence and a commitment to clarity.

It’s Okay to Stop and Correct Yourself

We all feel pressure to keep going when things aren’t perfect, especially in recorded interviews. But the reality is, it doesn’t make you weak to stop, compose yourself, and do it better. Whether it’s for a media training video, a company promo, or a taped interview, asking for a retake doesn’t reflect poorly on you.

In fact, stopping and fixing your delivery can elevate the clarity of your message. We highlight this in every media training class we run—whether for executives, athletes, or celebrities. Knowing when something doesn’t feel right and having the courage to correct it is a sign of confidence, not weakness.

Give Your Words More Impact

The next time you’re in a pre-recorded media interview, remember—you have the power to ask for a retake. Slow down, take your time, and ensure your message lands with the impact it deserves. This is one of the essential takeaways we emphasize in media training for executives—the importance of taking control of your communication.

While live interviews don’t offer a reset button, pre-recorded sessions do, and it’s your responsibility to ensure your message resonates. If you feel like you went too fast or missed your key points, ask for a do-over. There’s no weakness in striving for perfection, and your audience will thank you for it.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a video for your company’s website or a major media outlet, what matters most is that your message comes across clearly. It’s not the audience’s job to decode your meaning—it’s your job to make it crystal clear. Don’t be afraid to take control of your delivery and ask for a second chance when needed.

Next time you’re in front of a camera, remember: You have the power to slow down, reset, and deliver with confidence. That’s what media training is all about—preparing you to communicate your message with clarity and impact.

At Janicek Performance Group, we’re here to help you perfect the delivery of your message. From media training intensives to one-on-one coaching, we’re dedicated to making sure you feel confident and understood—whether you’re on camera, behind the mic, or delivering a keynote presentation. Reach out for more information about our media training programs or join one of our media training workshops today!

Why You Need to Hire a Public Speaking Coach Before Your Next Conference

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As summer winds down, we find ourselves entering one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year—conference season! Whether you’re a subject matter expert, spokesperson, in sales, a CTO, or CEO looking to forge new partnerships, this period is full of opportunities to showcase your expertise and make an impact.

But here’s the catch: you can’t afford to settle for the same old approach. In today’s fast-paced business environment, standing out means pushing beyond what’s comfortable and doing something different.

The Importance of Doing Something Different

Your performance is everything.⁠ If you invest time getting nervous and prepping your slides, don’t skip preparing how you will deliver the gold.⁠

Your audience needs to feel something to act.⁠

You want to build your influence.⁠

You want to create confidence.⁠

It’s not enough to talk.⁠

It takes a performance.⁠

It’s tempting to stick to the tried-and-true methods you’ve relied on throughout your career, but the truth is, those methods won’t deliver fresh results. Whether you’re presenting at a national conference, hosting a panel, or giving a product demo, innovation is key.

Why? Because everyone else is also out there trying to make an impression. The same tactics that worked last year won’t cut it anymore. Attendees and potential clients are hungry for new ideas, fresh perspectives, and engaging presentations. That’s where doing something different can set you apart. By embracing new strategies and injecting your presentations with creativity and authenticity, you open up opportunities for meaningful connections that go beyond a typical conference interaction.

Changing and Evolving: Why It’s Hard (But Worth It)

Let’s be real—change is hard. Whether it’s a shift in your presentation style, the way you engage with your audience or even your mindset, evolving can feel uncomfortable. That’s because it requires more than just a surface-level adjustment; true growth demands introspection and the willingness to step out of your comfort zone.

For many, the hardest part is looking inward, acknowledging where there’s room for improvement, and facing those shortcomings head-on. It can be challenging to critique yourself or your team without judgment, but this self-awareness is crucial for real change.

It’s a process that takes dedication, time, and an openness to learn. But once you embrace it, you’ll start to see the positive effects not only in your presentations but also in how you connect with your audience.

Connecting with Your Audience in a Meaningful Way

The power of a great presentation lies in how well you connect with your audience. But creating that connection requires more than just delivering information. You need to approach your presentation with a new mindset, one that prioritizes authentic engagement over just “getting through” your slides.

When you step on stage (or onto a Zoom call), your audience can sense your energy, your confidence, and your authenticity. By pushing yourself to evolve and adopt fresh approaches, your audience will feel that effort. They’ll appreciate the authenticity and be more likely to engage with you, ask questions, and remember your message long after the conference is over.

The Value of Hiring a Coach for Conference Season

Now that we’ve established why doing something different is crucial, let’s talk about how to make that happen. This is where hiring a coach can make all the difference.

At Janicek Performance Group, we specialize in helping professionals prepare for high-stakes presentations. With our coaching, you’ll refine your speaking skills, gain confidence in trying new strategies, and embrace the discomfort of growth. We work with you to identify areas for improvement, help you develop a strong presentation style, and guide you through techniques to engage your audience on a deeper level.

Our tailored approach ensures that whether you’re a seasoned speaker or preparing for your first big stage, you’ll walk away feeling prepared, polished, and ready to make an impact.

Why Fourth Quarter is the Time for Change

As we head into the fourth quarter, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing what’s worked before. But if you want different results—if you want to leave a lasting impression this conference season—you need to embrace the challenge of change. Don’t wait until next year to improve your presentation skills. Now is the time to invest in yourself and your team so you can finish the year strong and set yourself up for even more success in the year ahead.

Are you ready to make a lasting impression this conference season? Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you elevate your speaking and presentation skills.

How Professionals Should Leverage Personal Brands

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Your personal brand is more important than ever. Many professionals excel at their jobs, showing up and performing day in and out. However, they often overlook the long-term benefits of cultivating a strong personal brand.

How can you be seen as a thought leader? How will you be asked to speak at conferences or in the media? How can you network outside of your current job environment? What opportunities will appear for you later in life if you actively manage your online presence now?

During a recent webinar hosted by Traci Kantowski of Women In Nutraceuticals (WIN), I shared some key insights on building a personal brand.

The Importance of Personal Branding

Many professionals neglect their personal brand, thinking they don’t need one or have one. The truth is everyone has a personal brand. It’s about owning and aligning with it to establish credibility, build trust, and create a unique professional identity.

A strong personal brand can significantly influence your career growth, networking opportunities, and industry influence. It helps you stand out in a crowded marketplace and positions you as a thought leader in your field.

How to Leverage Your Personal Brand

1. Google Yourself

The first step in leveraging your personal brand is to Google yourself. This may sound simple, but it’s a crucial exercise. Here’s how to make the most of this step:

  • Audit Your Online Presence: Look at all the information that comes up about you. This includes social media profiles, articles, photos, and any mentions of your name. Ensure that everything aligns with who you are now. Are there outdated job titles or old photos that don’t represent your current professional image? Update them.
  • Consistency Across Platforms: Make sure that your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and any other professional profiles are consistent. Your professional image should be cohesive across all platforms. This also includes having a personal website that acts as a hub for your professional brand. It should showcase your resume, portfolio, and a professional blog.
  • Remove Irrelevant Content: If there are old profiles or content that no longer align with your current professional identity, it’s time to either update or remove them. You don’t want potential clients or employers to find irrelevant or outdated information. This clean-up ensures that what they do find is relevant, up-to-date, and reflective of your current expertise and personality.

2. Showcase Your Unique Strengths

While many people may have similar degrees and qualifications, what sets you apart is your personality and unique selling points. Here’s how you can effectively showcase your strengths:

  • Identify Your Unique Qualities: Think about what makes you different from others in your field. Is it a specific skill, a unique approach, or a personal experience that gives you a unique perspective? Reflect on your strengths and how they contribute to your professional success.
  • Incorporate Your Strengths Into Your Personal Story: Your personal brand should tell a story about who you are and what you bring to the table. Use your unique strengths as the cornerstone of this story. This will not only make you stand out but also make your personal brand more relatable and memorable.
  • Highlight Your Accomplishments: Don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements. Whether it’s a successful project, a notable award, or a skill you’ve mastered, make sure these are highlighted in your personal brand. Use them to demonstrate your expertise and the value you bring.
  • Engage With Your Audience: Connect with your audience on a personal level. Share your journey, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the lessons you’ve learned. This transparency helps build trust and establishes you as a thought leader in your field.

3. Set SMART Goals

Creating content and maintaining a strong online presence is time-consuming, so it’s essential to set SMART goals for your personal brand. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  • Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve with your personal brand. Whether it’s attracting more clients, getting contacted by journalists for media interviews, or becoming a thought leader in your field, be specific about your goals.
  • Measurable: Set benchmarks to measure your progress. For example, aim to increase your LinkedIn connections by a certain percentage or set a target number of blog posts or articles to publish each month.
  • Achievable: Set realistic goals that you can achieve within a certain timeframe. Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many objectives. Focus on a few key areas that will have the most impact on your personal brand.
  • Relevant: Ensure your goals are relevant to your overall career aspirations and personal brand. If your aim is to be seen as a thought leader in healthcare, for example, focus on creating content and engaging with communities in that field.
  • Time-bound: Give yourself deadlines to achieve your goals. This will keep you motivated and ensure that you make steady progress. For instance, set a goal to revamp your LinkedIn profile within the next month or to start a blog within the next quarter.

Personal branding is not just about self-promotion; it’s about establishing credibility, building trust, and creating a unique professional identity. By leveraging your personal brand, you can influence career growth, expand your network, and become a thought leader in your industry. Start by Googling yourself, showcasing your unique strengths, and setting SMART goals for your personal brand.

Need help with your personal identity? Let’s talk about how Janicek Performance Group will transform your personal brand into a powerful professional asset.

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