For example, if you love computer science, join relevant clubs, like a coding or robotics club. Don’t join 10 activities at school just because you think it’ll look good on a college application. [2] X Research source If you’re applying to a job, ask your references to promote specific skills. Ask them, “Would you relate how I trained new employees? I’d like to highlight that I can master new abilities and communicate information clearly. ”
For instance, your teachers will notice you more if you participate in class and go to extra help sessions, even if you don’t get the highest grades in the class.
For example, if you want a college application essay to get noticed, don’t write something generic about how you look up to a parent or teacher. Instead, tell an interesting story. Maybe you were on a field trip to the science museum, and you, your biology teacher, and a couple friends got stuck in an elevator. While you were stuck, you had a deep conversation that inspired you to pursue biomedical research.
For instance, suppose your teacher marked up the first draft of your paper with red ink, but their feedback helped you write a fantastic final draft. You could say, “I really appreciate the time you put into critiquing my first draft. Your feedback helped me focus on the topic, and I ended up learning a lot from this project. "
For instance, after a job interview or meeting a company executive, say something like, “Thanks for describing the company’s manufacturing process with such detail, and for recommending Jane Doe’s eye-opening article on the industry. ”
For example, instead of eating lunch alone, look for someone you’ve never met and say, “Hey there! Is this seat taken?” Later on, they’ll probably notice you when you pass them in the hallway and say hello. If you’re nervous, remember that everyone has insecurities and gets shy, even if they seem totally confident on the outside.
For example, if you’re at a new school, ask the person sitting next to you, “What do you do for fun? Are you in any clubs or do you play a sport?” Instead of asking another unrelated question after they respond, say something like, “Oh cool! I’ve never played hockey, but it’s fun to watch. Do lots of people go to games and show school spirit?” Once they respond, try mentioning an activity that you are interested in to build the conversation.
Figure out what you enjoy and do it. If you love a music genre, listen to as many tracks and artists as you can and learn about its evolution. Developing an interest or hobby can help you spark conversations and get noticed by like-minded people. If you already have an interesting hobby, you can use it to start conversations as well.
Running for student government is another great way to get recognized by your peers. [12] X Research source If your workplace has a company team, join it or support it. For example, if there’s a company softball team but you’re not the best athlete, go to the game, cheer for your team, and bring a cooler with refreshments.
If you’re an introvert, try to use it to your advantage at social events. Listen and observe while all the extroverts talk. Then, when the opportunity presents itself, you could say to someone, “I heard you mention Roald Dahl earlier. He’s my favorite author!” Whether the person is your crush or an executive at work, they’ll notice that you paid attention to them and sparked a meaningful conversation.
For example, remind yourself that you’re a good piano player, great at math, always there for your friends, and a good role model for your younger siblings.
Brush your teeth daily, shower regularly, and wash up thoroughly from head to toe when you bathe. Try to keep your hair and fingernails neat, wear clean clothes, and use deodorant.
While you want to maintain good posture, try not to be too rigid. Find a balance between being comfortable and using your posture to project confidence.
Try to focus on things about your face and body that you love. Compliment yourself regularly and, if it helps, write down a list of positive traits. When you’re feeling insecure, read the list and remind yourself that you’re a unique, fantastic person. If getting in better shape would help your confidence level, you can try eating healthier and walking, jogging, or other forms of exercise. However, try not to think about yourself negatively. Instead, focus on improving your health and taking great care of yourself.
If you get nervous about talking to people or speaking in front of a group, take a deep breath and relax. Imagine something calming, like a safe location that makes you happy. Remind yourself that you have nothing to be afraid of, and everyone mixes up their words or gets nervous now and then. [18] X Research source
Looking disheveled might get you noticed, but you want people to notice you for positive things. If you want to develop a new style or add to your current look, try browsing Pinterest to get inspiration. Save the images of outfits that are most appealing to you.