When I was growing up, I always knew that I loved to perform.

What it took me longer to figure out is that what I really loved was pushing others to perform their best.

My voice was in a constant state of tension between cheerleading and choir; and - for a while - it had disastrous consequences.

But, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned how to use my Cheerleading skillz in a new way.

I like to consider myself a professional hypewoman as well as a Marketing Strategist.

Have you ever been on a team that hummed like a finely tuned Top Gun aircraft? Do you remember that feeling? Communicating to your wingperson, knowing you were covered, speeding faster that you’d ever thought possible?

That’s why my programs work.

That’s why I’m good at my job.

That’s why I love what I do.

Because I’m one of the loudest, oldest, and most visible professionals, I often get asked for advice on “networking”. (Snooze. I agree folx, it’s the worst.)

Nope. Don’t do it. Don’t fall into the trap. Don’t attend endless happy hours dressed like every other tom, dick, and jane. Don’t ask the prescribed list of questions from HR - unless they are questions you’re actually interested in knowing the answers for - instead, follow your bliss. Follow your interests. Follow your gut.

What makes a 3-time All-American Cheerleader?

What makes an MVP?

What makes a Viral Program?

A team that is 100% behind each person. An audience that’s encouraged and engaged like Swifties for the Kelces at a Chiefs game.

So, here’s my 2 cents this week:

When you go on Alignable, LinkedIn, and networking trips, BE A CHEERLEADER.

Find what you want to work harder and pump it up.

Fill your brain with trivia on it, so you can draft a fantasy team.

Before the moment of truth, flip out with exaltant enthusiasm.

On the day of delivery, show up in mass, wear the colors and back up the message with repeated enthusiasm.

And when the smoke clears, chant, “we are proud of you”.

Once you’re a Cheerleader, you never go back; and nobody knows how to build support for any initiative like a cheerleader.

After all “Leader” is right there in the name.