Are you anticipating perceptions?

My experience at the DMV yesterday was very different from the "olden days." 

Even though my transaction was a bit complicated and I had several several wait times in between staff interactions, it was miles away from what I used to experience.

The greeter/expediter was super helpful and got me off on the right foot. 

The people were delightful, many wearing Christmas hats (it was Christmas hat day, to be followed by Christmas sweaters and whatnot). 

One of them shared her fascination with an Orthodox Jewish woman's IG account that I'm now following!

I had lovely conversations with everyone I encountered, and the fact that I was able to make an appointment online and fill out some paperwork using a simple touchscreen made it even smoother.

But what's the PERCEPTION of the DMV? Surly employees, long wait times, and a generally miserable experience.

When you give a presentation (whether it's at a formal meeting or via your Instagram reels), are you 👉🏼👉🏼anticipating perceptions?👈🏼👈🏼

I often teach about anticipating objections as a presenter: being prepared for the things that people will disagree with or challenge you on.

But anticipating perception is different: It means being prepared to address general perceptions of you, your work or your organization - and to correct them!

One organization I met with recently said "Everyone thinks we only work with homeless people. But we have all these other services!"

An employee of a library I'm working with said, "People automatically equate libraries to reading/education/school, which they have a negative opinion of."

❓❓How are perceptions of you, your work and your organization keeping potential clients away, or keeping people from seeking your services?

Whether you're posting on socials or speaking at a conference, always be prepared to address perceptions:

🔸"You may have heard XYZ..."

🔸"You might be surprised to know XYZ..."

🔸"If you've always thought XYZ, let me blow your mind..."

If people are stuck on old perceptions of you (or holding onto objections in their 🧠), they're not fully open to what you have to say. They've already made up their minds about you.

🌟🌟What perceptions do people have about your work or your company that you need to dispel so you can serve all the people you're meant to serve? 

☎️📧Reach out if you need help with this in your presentations!

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