16 Comments
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Molly Willett's avatar

I love this- I really hate how fake LinkedIn feels and I totally relate to the burnout that comes from pretending to be someone different, someone less human, in an effort to be “more professional”

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Imogen Hall's avatar

Urgh that’s it isn’t it. I feel like it’s way worse for the highlights reel vibe than instagram, because theres even more pressure to come across as professional! Thanks for your lovely comment ☺️

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Dean Power's avatar

When I was in my early 20’s trying everything and pedaling like crazy. Leaders around often told me to “fake it till you make it”. I tried it. Years later with some reflection, I thought what dreadful advice. I’m not sure it worked for anyone and worst of all. Win, lose or draw who wants to feel like a fake. I would not be in the least surprised Imogen, if you have just triggered a brilliant new evolution. Keep shining your light, your way. ♥️

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Imogen Hall's avatar

Thank you so, so much for your comment! It's really made my day. It's hard when you're in the middle (or at the start?) of this journey so hearing from others is so lovely.

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Christine's avatar

I love this, bold and courageous 💪🏿

I had been toying with the idea myself and when I read this, I at least felt like I would not be a crazy person fot doing this. 🤭

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Imogen Hall's avatar

Do it!! I'm kind of also thinking, the judgey people wouldn't click the link anyway, to be honest.

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Christine's avatar

That part for judgey people is so worth keeping in mind🙂‍↕️

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Maria Sandberg's avatar

I loved this! It’s funny how we are often our own harshest critics, mockers, and bullies—most people don’t even care. Yay to you for doing what you love through the cringe. I 100% resonate. Yay us! 🙌

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Priya | The Pretend Poet's avatar

This is so brave, Imogen! I keep my writing a secret. I would never share it on LinkedIn because the last thing I want my corporate connections to know is anything more than my name and location. But I love that you called yourself a writer—you absolutely are, own it! 💕

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Dinah's avatar

43 people clicked the link?! That is massive! Absolutely massive! Good job.

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David S. Barnett's avatar

Congratulations on your bravery.

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John E. Bredehoft's avatar

Just sent you a LinkedIn connection request.

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Frou McGarey's avatar

I love this and all of your writing Imi. You’re so talented. More please 💕

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Eileen's avatar

Weirdos, unite!! If more people showed up as themselves everywhere, without apology, I suspect the world would be a much happier place. Good for you!!

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Retirement - The Best Yet's avatar

I took a work break back in 2015 for a year to give me a chance to write. I did post about it on LinkedIn and was immediately filled with shame and regret, I know how that feels. I eventually went back to work and shuffled those desires under the rug, time to get back to it. Now I am in a place where my job will likely be relocated in the next three years. I will be 63 and I am realistic about my job prospects by that time. I have a big enough network, it could happen but my plan is to dip my toes in all the ponds of interest, looking for the common threads and build on that over that time. I am going slower than you, but I want to make sure I can sustain what I am going to do. I appreciate reading your story, just wanted to let you know it’s helpful to others. Brent Brown talks about having a strong spine, open front…that is how I going about my day!

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May 27
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Imogen Hall's avatar

Thank you! Well, feel free to send me a message when you post anything. I'll very happily be your first reader!

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