You don't have to like a person you work with, but you are expected to be civil and responsible. You don't have to like the same friends that others within your circle migrate towards, but you know how to be polite when the situation presents itself. So why in the world is it difficult to maintain certain decorum when networking?
Business models aside, aren't we all here for the same goal? Building a stronger network for greater reach. What it has turned into is some sort of free for all, where you can cut into conversations, make dates, gossip like there's no tomorrow, and create riffs over nothing.
It's enough to make you sick. Grown men and women, nitpicking and spending tireless, precious time on nonsense. Plain and simple, it needs to stop and right now. There is no dignity in it. There isn't a steady revenue stream gained from it, unless you happen to be a part of reality T.V. and even that is wearing thin. Remember the good old days when you'd go to a networking venue and you actually talked with someone, learned something new and walked away with a bit of more than what you came with? As if that's not enough-add alcohol to the dynamic.
Especially appalling are the alarming number of alcoholic beverages consumed before getting behind the wheel of a car at these events, making bad manners seem like a walk in the park. While there is nothing wrong with having a drink, you should know your limits long before the insulting, name calling and loud behavior transforms you into the elephant in the room. Try these simple tips for the greater good, safety and dignity of yourself and others.
Choose A Designated Driver-Before striking out on your own, if you know a glass of wine will alter enough of your personality, vision or mood, don't risk it. For some, that one glass of beer or wine can change everything. It may not mean you are drunk but if it alters in the slightest, err on the side of common sense.
Don't Go For The Jugular-Upon arrival try not to bee-line it to the bar. Mingle and grab a nibble to reduce the likelihood of going pass the point of no return. Try a non-alcoholic beverage before going for the libation. Keep your bearings so you can remember the people you really want to make contact with later. Coming this far to mess things up is not the smart choice and there might not be a second chance.
See Beyond The Night-A sure-fire career killer is imbibing in the company of potential clients or decision makers. The level of liability out ways whatever skill you think you may possess. No one will care because they will be too blinded by the sheer irresponsibility and stupidity of the person who loses it at a networking event. If you can't control your consumption it could signal that it's time to get help. Only you know your limit. Don't do something outlandish that you will regret for whatever time you have remaining of a working career.
It's not safe, smart or attractive. We all want you to be around a long, long time but you have to make the first move. And in this case, when you let the good times roll, the life you wanted may roll right away.
Until next time~
Business models aside, aren't we all here for the same goal? Building a stronger network for greater reach. What it has turned into is some sort of free for all, where you can cut into conversations, make dates, gossip like there's no tomorrow, and create riffs over nothing.
It's enough to make you sick. Grown men and women, nitpicking and spending tireless, precious time on nonsense. Plain and simple, it needs to stop and right now. There is no dignity in it. There isn't a steady revenue stream gained from it, unless you happen to be a part of reality T.V. and even that is wearing thin. Remember the good old days when you'd go to a networking venue and you actually talked with someone, learned something new and walked away with a bit of more than what you came with? As if that's not enough-add alcohol to the dynamic.
Especially appalling are the alarming number of alcoholic beverages consumed before getting behind the wheel of a car at these events, making bad manners seem like a walk in the park. While there is nothing wrong with having a drink, you should know your limits long before the insulting, name calling and loud behavior transforms you into the elephant in the room. Try these simple tips for the greater good, safety and dignity of yourself and others.
Choose A Designated Driver-Before striking out on your own, if you know a glass of wine will alter enough of your personality, vision or mood, don't risk it. For some, that one glass of beer or wine can change everything. It may not mean you are drunk but if it alters in the slightest, err on the side of common sense.
Don't Go For The Jugular-Upon arrival try not to bee-line it to the bar. Mingle and grab a nibble to reduce the likelihood of going pass the point of no return. Try a non-alcoholic beverage before going for the libation. Keep your bearings so you can remember the people you really want to make contact with later. Coming this far to mess things up is not the smart choice and there might not be a second chance.
See Beyond The Night-A sure-fire career killer is imbibing in the company of potential clients or decision makers. The level of liability out ways whatever skill you think you may possess. No one will care because they will be too blinded by the sheer irresponsibility and stupidity of the person who loses it at a networking event. If you can't control your consumption it could signal that it's time to get help. Only you know your limit. Don't do something outlandish that you will regret for whatever time you have remaining of a working career.
It's not safe, smart or attractive. We all want you to be around a long, long time but you have to make the first move. And in this case, when you let the good times roll, the life you wanted may roll right away.
Until next time~
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