We have all been the wall flower at least once in our corporate lives where everyone at the event practically ignores you. It is really embarrassing when all the others are talking to each other and you are left alone to muse at a corner. Once you get used to attending conferences, etc. this will not be a problem as, by then, you will have at least some similar faces and once you are a regular people will start communicating.
However, for how long are you going to wait until people warms up to you? Can you really afford to be ignored for several events before you find the flow? I think not. Therefore, here are a few things that will give you a head start at the next event.
Plan your strategy
If possible, find out the list of the attendees and do some research about them. If there are potential clients or colleagues that you cannot afford to miss, email or telephone them to set up meetings before waiting to meet them at the event and hope that by some miracle they will be noticing you.
Think about the topics that you can discuss with the others without offending anyone. Have a mix of both serious things and also light things to talk about; some may not be interested in talking all work!
Be on time
Never be late to an event. If you get delayed, the others would have already started networking and it may be difficult for you to mingle. Chauffeur cars Melbourne are recommended instead of trying to drive to the place on your own as the risks of getting lost or not being able to find the venue, meeting with accidents, etc., are so much lower in this option.
Dress appropriately
If you are a first timer, you may not be certain about the attire. So it is better to check beforehand and be prepared. If you are not dressed for the occasion or are overdressed, the other attendees may not have the inclination to approach you.
Be approachable
Put on a light smile (not too tight and fake and not too broad) and be relaxed. If you are shy, it shows and makes the others think twice about approaching you. Do not keep looking at the phone. If you do this, the attendees will get the impression that you wish to be left alone.
Take the advantage of the luxury car chauffeur and when you get off the vehicle and he closes the door for you, get in to the mindset that you are hosting the event and every attendee should feel comfortable talking to you. If there are people in the entrance area, look at them in the eye and smile as you would to a person visiting you. I can assure you that no one will look away from a person arriving in a luxury car and will be impressed that you took the time to notice them.
Move on
Do not stick with one person for long. I know, once you have finally found someone to talk to at an event where you are practically being ignored by the others, it is difficult to let go. However, sticking with one person will diminish your opportunities for connecting with the others. Have a simple chit chat, exchange cards and contact details and move on.
Lastly, the main thing you need to understand is that no one is going to come to you and talk unless you are a celebrity. So be confident (at least pretend to be) and approach the others. If you are still not comfortable breaking into other people’s conversations, pick some wall flowers to connect with first. There may be a lot of valuable people in that category who, just like you, are too shy to shine.
Related posts: