The Powerful Messages We Send

I recently attended an annual event that hosts senior-level automotive executives. It’s a three-day conference of industry insight and powerful networking.

One morning as we listened to speakers, I noticed an executive diligently working on his laptop throughout three hours of presentations. When we took networking breaks, he continued to work away and never looked up.

What he didn’t realize was this sent three messages: #1. He did not appear interested in what the speakers had to say #2. He was not interested in meeting others #3. He was not leveraging an expensive seat to his company’s advantage

He likely had something urgent to get done (or he believes appearing busy is important or he's uncomfortable networking or fill in the blank). Regardless, it would have been better to work somewhere else than convey these messages.

Like it or not, perception is important. To our reputation, to that of our company and to our colleagues when we signal behavior that this is okay. I call this opportunity! To become self-aware of the soft changes we can make to our professional advantage.