Keeping people in the conversation

At a networking event this morning, I was reminded of the importance of being included.

It goes back to the note in an earlier entry in this space about being polite: don't leave anybody out of a conversation. Be inclusive.

From the time we are kids, we want to be included. Sometimes the teacher or adult had to intervene, but, ultimately, it was up to us or those in teh group to be included or invite you in.

Same goes at the modern networking event. Make the effort to include people in the conversation. Don't let them sit there while you talk away and they just have to listen. give them an entry place or an intro: "what do you think, Rick?" or "Ruth Ann, I remember your question at the last event..." or, best yet, "Hi, my name is....welcome. what's your name?"

We're all here to meet people and learn.

Relentless