The conversation was lively.
Until the big reveal!
Yesterday, I attended a conference on AI at work.
Everyone attending was either working in technology or interested in it.
While eating breakfast, I chatted with the people at my table.
One gentleman worked in a nonprofit that focused on getting people jobs.
He asked me what I did.
I happily informed him that I teach people who hate networking how to network.
He smiled, “Well, there are a lot of them!”
I nodded, “Yes. Most of the research I’ve seen says it’s about 40 percent of people.”
“You know, it’s a thing of beauty when everything works the way it’s supposed to!” he gushed.
“Yes! I love seeing my clients jump in with confidence – and even have unexpected fun doing it.” I agreed.
He continued, “And it looks great when it’s all bundled up the way it’s supposed to be.”
Hmmmm. I was a little confused… Bundled up? Is that a different term for talking in groups?
And then it happened…
He spilled the tea…
“You know those networking rooms can be a total mess. I’ve seen them look like chaos – wires and cables everywhere!”
BINGO!
I realized we were both chatting about networking – with very different meanings!
I gently explained that I teach people how to network with other people – not with wires and cables.
We all laughed – and the conversation rolled on.
Makes me think of people who hate networking BUT want Magnetic Relationships…how do you laugh off the goof-ups that will periodically happen?