It doesn't really matter what status you have when mentioning it to the public. You are not a representative of bitcoin, you are a participant and involved in the movement of what bitcoin is. Just get others involved as well so they can join this movement I would say.
And if it reaches 10k they would surely regret for the worst decision they made by not having faith in you at the primary stage, So it would definitely build your positive image in their minds and in future they would be surely trusting you even with their closed eyes, and ofcourse if you are rich it will directly contribute in raising your status.