“You’ve changed the way I work with the women on my team.”

A ghostwriting client of mine was at a conference when a peer tracked her down to tell her those words. He told her that he didn’t realize how difficult it was for women in his male-dominated industry, and that he learned from my client how he could do better.

He pledged to support them, help them grow professionally, and show them that their voices and ideas are valued. That has made a positive impact on the lives and careers of everyone who worked for this person.

And everyone who ever will.

All because he read my client’s articles and posts on LinkedIn.

What we did

My client and I didn’t set out to make this kind of impact. Truth be told, we had no idea this would happen. All we wanted to do was share my client’s passions and stories.

So we crafted stories about lessons she learned, cringy bosses who tried to hold her down, and experiences she had. We shared the lessons she’s learned over time, the insights she has into women’s experiences in her industry, and advice she has for her peers and for young people starting their careers.

We created a plan, crafted her stories, and consistently shared them. Over time, those stories made an impact.

How you can make an impact

I’d bet my last nickel that you have stories, ideas and experiences that can make the same kind of impact that my client’s stories did. You just might not see them.

It’s just hard for people to see the value of their own stories. So here are some ways to get started.

Give advice to your younger self

We all wish we could go back and time and tell our younger selves what we know now. The good news we can do that. Sort of.

There are countless versions of your younger self out there who you could help. Share your stories so that they might avoid the mistakes you’ve made.

Be a mentor, then amplify it

Mentoring is a powerful way to help people coming up behind you. But you can also extend
that mentorship to the world.

Take note of the questions your protégé asks, and the advice you provide. Chances are those questions and that advice will be relevant to someone else.

Find a sounding board

Sometimes the best way to see the value of your own stories is to say them out loud. Find someone – a friend, a colleague – to share your thoughts with. That person might be able to help you see how much impact your stories can have.

And if you really want to get serious, consider working with a ghostwriter or a coach who can help you shape your stories for maximum impact.

Being an inspiration is underrated

There are many great reasons to share your stories, ideas and experiences. Attracting talent, building a company culture, gaining trust from your customers, and advancing your career.

But none are more satisfying than inspiring, encouraging or influencing others, for no other reason than to help make the world a better place.

You have that power. Simply by sharing your stories, you can help people and put
positive energy into the world.

You have stories to tell. The world needs to hear them.