Are You a “No Show'? May 22, 2013Expert BlogsOff

 

Let me begin by posing a straight-forward question. Once you register for an event, agree to participate in a workshop, or confirm your attendance at a conference, do you honor your commitment? I am guessing most of you are saying, “Of course I do.” 
 
Do you, really? 
 
Think back to the last time you were a no-show. Could you honestly not attend the event? Perhaps you refused to say “no” to a last minute meeting request or thought it impossible to pull away from the office? 
 
The reality is that many women give themselves permission to back out at the last minute. At Leading Women, we see this first-hand at every event. Whether hosting a monthly networking event or facilitating a workshop, we can always count on a predictable number of no shows. 
 
Of course, things come up. Illness, unexpected personal and professional conflicts can be unavoidable. These should be the exceptions, not the rule. It all comes down to how someone prioritizes external networking and professional development commitments. 
 
As a no-show, what is the message you are sending? Think about this – your name badge lies on the registration table. There is the empty seat at the table. At a workshop, your absence is likely more obvious and the impact greater. People notice. Not to mention, your company likely paid for you to attend.
 
We don’t sign up with the intention to not attend. The next time you casually pull out of a networking commitment, think about the message you are communicating. Equally importantly, consider the reasons why you tell yourself it is okay to back out.  Do you tend to create self-imposed barriers, like thinking it necessary to remain in the office or that you are just busy?  Do you let others take control of your schedule? Are you willing to tell a colleague (or even your boss) that their last minute request interferes with a commitment?
 
Don’t lose sight that networking is one of your strongest business tools and relationships drive business.  Men get this and prioritize networking. Your professional reputation and relationship with others is built on the foundation of doing what you say you will do. When you honor your commitments, you are creating a stronger foundation that supports your success.  
 
The next time you are tempted to become a no-show, beware of the ripple effect it creates and the lasting impression it may leave.
 
Lisa Bergeron, president, Leading Women SENE/CT

 

 

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