Tip: Be aware of the blinker-ed conversation
There’s a school of thought that says, 'when you are speaking to someone, give them 100% of your focus.' We don’t think that’s exactly right...
Have you ever been THE person standing at the periphery of a conversation (and wanting to say hi to one or both people) and either they don’t see you, or just ignore you? This can happen at a networking event, conference, or in your office. Awkward, right?
Yes, these two people may be having a private conversation, but that’s not always the case--more likely they don’t have the situational awareness they need in that moment. If it’s a private conversation it would be better to have it later, so that they can welcome the person standing there--who is wondering ‘should I stay or go’?
It’s about making someone feel welcome--not shunned, not rejected. Even the smallest actions can have a positive or negative effect on others.
So, whether it’s at a networking event, or in an office hallway, or social situation, take off the Conversation Blinkers.
SHEPA LEARNING COMPANY WEEKLY POSITIVE NETWORKING® TIP
No. 999, March 1, 2023
By Gayle Hallgren and Judy Thomson