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Who It’s For: Entrepreneurs, Senior Business Leaders, Managers, Sales Professionals, Female Leaders, and R&D, Innovation, DEI, and Other Critical Teams
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Embrace Your Expertise, Build Your Personal Brand, and Lead With Confidence
Darlene Hawley
How to Turn Client Testimonials, Leadership Experience, and Proven Skills into Powerful Credibility Builders
Have you ever felt like you’re standing at the edge of your own greatness but can’t quite bring yourself to say, “Yes, I’m really good at what I do”?
This week, two different clients told me, within a few short hours of each other, “I need your big brain in my business." & " I can’t imagine reaching these goals without you.”
You’d think after 18 years of helping people craft their messages, refine their strategies, and step confidently into the spotlight, I’d have zero trouble saying, “Yes, I’m great at what I do.” But, if I’m honest, I still hesitate. I still wrestle with impostor syndrome.
The saying "we teach what we need to learn" rings true for me.
Even with all of these success stories on repeat in my head, there’s a quiet voice whispering, “Don’t brag. Don’t make it about you.”
We all have that voice, am I right?
That little inner critic that pops up and tries to keep us playing small.
Maybe you’re a leader who’s launched amazing programs, a business owner who’s served countless happy clients, or a professional who’s earned promotion after promotion. Yet, when it comes time to claim it out loud, to own the value you bring, you shrink back, you play small. The fear of sounding arrogant or the thought of “Who am I to say I’m the expert?” can be and feel scary.
The truth is, sharing your wins isn’t bragging. It’s giving others permission to believe in you and trust what you bring to the table. When we hide our achievements, we’re actually doing a disservice not just to ourselves, but to the very people who need our help.
By acknowledging our expertise, we create opportunities for deeper impact.
We attract clients who value our work.
We inspire peers and rising leaders to see what’s possible. We build credibility on a foundation of truth, not on our big ol' inflated ego.
If you struggle with this, start by rewriting the narrative. Instead of thinking, “I’m bragging,” believe... “I’m serving.”
Each time you highlight a successful client story, share a result you’re proud of, or talk about a skill you’ve honed over the years, you’re offering a roadmap for others. You’re saying, “This is possible, and here’s how.”
If you’re ready to step into your own spotlight—without the fear, the shrink-back, or that old impostor voice—let’s talk. I’ve spent nearly two decades helping leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries find their voice, refine their message, and confidently share their strengths.
Reach out, and let’s carve out a path that allows you to proudly, boldly claim the genius that’s already in you. Because your people deserve to know what you’re capable of, and so do you.
I offer 1:1 Executive Leadership & Business Coaching & Team Trainings! If you would like to explore what working together would look like, I invite you to submit an application.
Hey There!
I'm Darlene
As a mother, wife, connector, and dream builder, I’m Darlene Hawley, the founder of DarleneHawley.com and an Executive Leadership & Businesss Coach dedicated to empowering leaders like you.
My passion lies in helping ambitious professionals cultivate their unique leadership style while crafting an authentic and impactful personal brand. Through my coaching, we’ll work together to build a solid foundation that not only inspires your team but also drives results and growth within your organization.
Since 2007, I have been committed to guiding leaders and entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their businesses with confidence and clarity.
Today, I focus on supporting women in reaching their leadership goals and living their dream lives—all while balancing the joys of raising my family and creating meaningful memories each day.
Together, we’ll transform your challenges into opportunities, allowing you to lead with authenticity and inspire those around you.
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What do you do when you speak up and say what others might be thinking but it's not well received?
