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Networking embarrassment

Nexus-7

I feel so embarrassed. I went to a conference today. At the end they had 1 1/2 hr “drinks and networking” session. I was feeling awkward and I kept finding I was standing in a group where people would pair off into individual conversations and I was standing there still but kind of alone. Or people would say, “Must go and mingle.” 

So then I would move to another group and I say hi and same would happen. I was trying to be super aware of myself, ask them questions, etc.

But then I started talking to someone and thought it was going well so I relaxed. He brought up a topic I’m really interested in and I got excited and started talking about it enthusiastically. Then I suddenly realised he was looking at me weird. So I stopped talking and he muttered, “Nice to meet you,” and walked off really fast. 

Now I realise I was just going on about it. And didn’t ask him enough. And I feel sad and humiliated. My confidence is completely shattered. 

I was diagnosed this year, I’m 47. I feel so much worse about everything now I realise I’m not just “socially awkward”, I’m autistic. 

Parents

  • Whoa crazy! I have a 1 1/2 hour drinks and networking session tonight, too! That’s kind of spooky, lol. I’m a little worried about the event, because I’m pretty awkward socially. I tend to be a wallflower at events like these.

     I feel like  is right on with:

    Stuart333 said:

    Don't worry about it. It's practice. It won't matter.

    Now you've noticed you can do better next time.

    Whenever I make mistakes that I mull over in my mind long after it happens, I try to see it as an opportunity for growth. You can learn from your mistakes and do better next time. Don’t let your confidence be completely shattered by this experience.

Reply

  • Whoa crazy! I have a 1 1/2 hour drinks and networking session tonight, too! That’s kind of spooky, lol. I’m a little worried about the event, because I’m pretty awkward socially. I tend to be a wallflower at events like these.

     I feel like  is right on with:

    Stuart333 said:

    Don't worry about it. It's practice. It won't matter.

    Now you've noticed you can do better next time.

    Whenever I make mistakes that I mull over in my mind long after it happens, I try to see it as an opportunity for growth. You can learn from your mistakes and do better next time. Don’t let your confidence be completely shattered by this experience.

Children
  • in reply to profdanger

    My husband just told me it’s because I was trying to talk to them about the subject the conference is about. But they don’t want to talk about that - just drink and “chat ****” as he put it. It didn’t occur to me to talk about something other than the conference subject (which I’m v interested in). Thanks for the kind advice. I hope your event goes well tonight! x