Ensemble TV shows have been around for years. We’ve watched them and made friends with the characters, gotten engaged in the plots and lived with them for years. But when a character got spun off or removed from the cast to go their own way in a new series or direction, things changed.
Think Joey from Friends or anyone from the Seinfeld cast. Except Jerry.
So it is with our lives and circles in which we are a part of in our networks. We are a part of a cast. A player in a drama (well, it doesn’t have to be dramatic). So, find your role, define it and play it appropriately.
You may be the lead or the wing man. You may be the giver of information or the taker. The point is all situations from city council to a cocktail party have characters in their realm. Pay attention to your surroundings and those other characters in the particular scene. Don’t overplay your role and know when to stay or when to go.
In a networking situation, you know when you get to an event where to start. Watch the proceedings and anticipate your exit. And do it gracefully and with style. Be aware of who the lead players are and hit your mark.
This is not just applying theatrical terminology to networking. It is truly about knowing when and where to engage and be included.
Always be thinking.
Relentless
