Diane Darling's Blog: May 2011

Hard to believe what's happened this past week ..... and in the middle of it all was a VERY adorable 3-year-old who had just had enough. What's great about kids is that they are totally authentic. Every so often I wish I could just cover my ears!

In case you missed the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, here's a link to Buckingham Palace.

Thoughts on how to gracefully (yes her name is Grace) find some quiet when you need it:

If you're an introvert and just don't like events, limit the number you attend. I'm a VERY friendly person but I get overwhelmed quickly in large crowds and when I don't know people. I am absolutely capable of talking to people I don't know but after awhile, enough is enough. I just want to network with my remote control. So I suggest you avoid taking on too much.
If you have to attend for example, you're the flower girl ..... find a buddy to help you. Maybe even the maid of honor. Be willing to let others know you need them.
Invite someone to join you at the food table or the bar. Often others are there, you can introduce yourself, bring the other person into the conversation.
Exchange business cards and suggest you speak further at a later time. Often when there are fewer distractions, you can be more focused and enjoy the conversation.
If you have a role at the event (e.g. flower girl), it's easier to get out of conversations since you need to be available for photos or meeting others.
If you don't have a role, arrive with some conversation starters. Comment about the event or how you know the person or organization hosting it.

While big events like this don't happen every day, they can zap our energy. There are many other ways to network besides attending them so find your own style!

Cheers ~ Diane

p.s. I happened to live in London as a nanny when Diana and Charles were married. It was amazing to watch the carriages go by. Hard to believe it will be 30 years ago this summer!