• Replies 17 replies
  • Subscribers 85 subscribers
  • Views 505 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

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.

  • 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

Reply
  • 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

Children
No Data