Put Your Best Foot Forward by Lillian D. Bjorseth

At a recent networking event at Hard Rock Café, I was relaxing between conversations and had chosen a seat alone where I could continue to observe the crowd. The entertainers/loud music were making me almost yell to be heard and my throat was begging for a break.

Soon a woman sat down next to me, and I smiled politely and asked how she was enjoying the event. She replied, “I am exhausted and I want to go home. However, I’ve only spoken to five people, and I need to meet ten.”     Without making me her sixth “victim,” she hopped up and was on her determined way again.

On the way home, I pondered her answer and it raised myriad questions for me.

1.    Why did she have to meet 10 people?

2.    Was this number self-imposed by something she had read or heard?

3.    If she was truly so tired would the interactions be heartfelt and worthwhile? 

4.    Why didn’t she introduce herself and speak with me? After all we were sitting, and that had to be more comfortable if she was already so tired?

5.    Why did she come at all … perhaps because she had paid in advance?

I believe in quality vs. quantity. While I created the 10-Minute Rule to Work an Event to make sure you don’t settle in with a few people, I also believe in making each interaction worthwhile. I am still pondering how to do that when you are exhausted and dreaming of being at home.

My conclusion: Follow your heart. If you want to stay until the last light goes out … do so. If occasionally you want to go leave an event early, go home and kick up your feet … do so.

There’s always another networking opportunity tomorrow, the next day and next week. It’s more important that you put your best foot forward than that you just put a foot forward.

About the Author

Lillian is President of Duoforce Enterprises, Inc. and is a highly sought-after communication and business networking skills speaker, trainer, coach and author. The Chicago Tribune calls her a “networking expert,” and the Association Forum of Chicagoland dubs her “the business networking authority.” Her many products are essential components for excellence in networking and communication skills. To follow her thoughts, go to her blog Lillian Communicates.

 

Comments

[Whats_yourstory]

Excellent!

Putting my best foot forward and following my heart has worked wonderfully for me... perhaps there is something to be said about being true to yourself and being authentic in networking. It takes the stress off and also opens the door for authentic professional relationships when networking.

[Jason Jacobsohn]

Good to hear that this resonated with you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.