It’s no secret that everyone from the leadership team to the boardroom gets stuck in those uncomfortable work situations. As professionals, we all want to shower our colleagues with honor and respect.
Here are my top tips for navigating some of the most common situations:
Forgetting someone’s name. During an introduction you may have been distracted by the dessert table and missed the name of your new connection. At the event, ask them for their card and glance down at their contact information. If the relationship has continued and you blank on their name, take them to Starbucks!
Awkward Silences. Some awkward silences are inevitable through an event. If you get stuck, break the conversation with a few go-to questions. Ask the group what they thought of the conference/programming, what they do for fun outside of work, or expand on a previous example. For example, if they mentioned being an avid traveler dive deeper into their favorite places and memories.
Gossip. Office gossip at the water cooler is the quickest way to diminish your credibility and executive presence at the office. If you get caught up in a conversation about others in the office quickly change the conversation by complementing their outfit or asking about their weekend plans. If the conversation continues, remind them that is they should be having the conversation with that individual only.
The Check. When the check hits the table at a business lunch everyone’s eyes dart down to it. The individual that invites, also pays. Arrive early to speak with the staff to coordinate the payment on your card so that the check does not even have to come to the table. Establish a relationship with your favorite local spot that you have an excellent relationship with every time.
