Conquering Conferences: Responding To Rejection And Approaching The Group Chat
Today we're preparing for the group networking waltz.
Ed. note: This is the second article in a series providing a comprehensive guide to networking at conferences. Read the first here.
Continuing our journey in “Conquering Conferences,” we now explore how to handle the inevitable — rejection.
Just like in a high school dance, not every approach leads to a successful interaction.
But fear not, today we’re learning the art of handling “no” with grace and preparing for the group networking waltz.
Graceful Strategies for Handling ‘No’
In the dance of conference networking, not every step leads to a perfect rhythm. Just as some dance invitations are gently declined at a high school prom, in the world of networking, you’ll sometimes face rejection.
It’s an inevitable part of the process, but it doesn’t have to be an awkward misstep. Handling rejection with grace and poise is crucial – it’s like knowing how to smoothly transition to the next song after a dance ends.
Here are some tactful ways to respond when someone isn’t interested in networking, allowing you to bow out of the conversation with dignity and keep your networking dance card open for the next opportunity.
Express Gratitude With Grace: Sometimes, a simple thank you can be the most elegant way to handle rejection. You could say, “Thank you for your time, I hope you find what you’re looking for at this event. Have a great day!” This shows that you’re understanding and professional, even in the face of rejection.
Casual Sign-off: A casual exit can be as simple as, “All right, I’ll let you get on with the event. Have a great time!” This is a friendly and nonchalant way of excusing yourself from the conversation.
Express Good Wishes: A simple and effective response can be, “No problem at all. I hope you have a fantastic conference!” This shows that you’re understanding and wish them well, regardless of their interest in networking with you.
Light-Hearted Acknowledgment: If you sense the conversation isn’t going anywhere, you can say, “Looks like I’m not the networking partner you’re looking for — but that’s OK! Enjoy the rest of your time here.” This acknowledges the situation with a bit of humor and shows that you’re not taking the rejection personally.
The Group Networking Waltz
The cocktail party at the conference is in full swing. The room is buzzing with the clink of glasses and the murmur of conversations.
Attendees are mingling, forming little islands of interaction. Some are laughing over shared anecdotes, others are deep in discussion about the day’s sessions.
It’s like a ballroom where each group dances to its own rhythm.
You’ve navigated one-on-one encounters, but now it’s time to step into the more intricate dance of group dynamics. Approaching a group requires a slightly different approach.
It’s about entering the conversation in a way that’s respectful of the existing dynamic while also making your presence known.
Think of it like joining a dance circle — you want to be part of the rhythm, not disrupt it.
- “Mind if I join in? I overheard you talking about [topic] and would love to hear more.”
- “Excuse me. I couldn’t help but be drawn to this lively group. I’m [Your Name].”
- “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m looking to meet new people and learn something new. Mind if I join and catch up on what you’re discussing?”
- “Hey there, I’m [Your Name]. I’m on a mission to mingle today. Can I join in?”
- “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m really looking forward to connecting with new people and hearing diverse perspectives. May I join you all?”
Mastering the group dynamics at conferences is akin to joining a dance circle. The art of networking is not just about individual connections, but also about harmonizing with the group rhythm.
In our next article, we’ll guide you through the steps of engaging group conversations and managing the “dance floor dominator.”
Handling ‘No’ with Grace: A Recap
✔️ Respond to rejections with gratitude and understanding.
✔️ Keep the tone light and polite, maintaining professionalism.
✔️ Join group conversations respectfully, ensuring you add to the dynamic without overpowering it.
✔️ Engage in the art of group conversation by inviting diverse opinions.
Sejal Patel is the Founder of Sage Ivy, a New York-based consultancy specializing in empowering attorneys with innovative practice development strategies. With over 20 years of experience, Sejal applies her expertise in assisting clients convert their relationships into revenue by applying individualized strategies to their networks and leveraging their unique styles authentically.
