Working the room

A dynamic presence is yours to have, if you follow these guidelines.

Have you ever noticed how some people have the ability to grab attention when they walk into a room full of strangers? There’s no mystery—it’s because of the way they look, act, and carry themselves.

Some individuals are naturally gregarious, but others not so much. With that in mind, an aura of magnetism is something that you can acquire and begin implementing into your repertoire of tools to employ in meetings, conventions, parties, and more.

Your perceived value starts with how you feel about entering a crowded area where you may only know a few people. Accept that this is something you have to do, and then change your attitude if you’re not feeling on fire.

If you know that a speaking event is coming up, prepare for it. It starts with how you think and the type of energy you project.

We are all drawn to people who smile and have a positive attitude. Their charisma is compelling.

You many need to practice this in front of a mirror to see what you look like to others and how approachable you may be. Even if feels silly, try it anyway. If you’re like most, you’ll be your own worst critic. To become great at anything requires diligence. Consider a few tips that can make a big difference:

Dress for the occasion.

It is better to be overdressed than underdressed. Casual wear includes jeans and pullovers; smart or business casual might entail office-appropriate clothes.

If you’re unsure about the venue, consider bringing some formal clothing with you in case you arrive at a function where smart casual is not enough.

Embrace your swagger.

Audiences usually respond well if you project a bold confidence and demeanor. Don’t stand in the corner. Instead, walk in with your head held high, posture in check (chest out, shoulders back), and your eyes forward.

Look like you know where you are going (even if you don’t), and wear a partial smile—just enough to make them wonder what you are thinking.

Communicate confidently.

When you stop and enter into a conversation, have an opening line that is simple. This could be, “What brings you to this event tonight?” Or, “Hello, I am Dr. Jones; this is a great event—and you are?”

Make up your own opening lines and get the conversation started. Always extend your hand and make an introduction. Exercise your swagger. You communicate with your voice, and also with your appearance, posture, and eye contact.

Act interested.

Be attentive to what people say. Listen and don’t interrupt when someone is making a point. Ask good questions and stay on topic, and your efforts will be noticed. People are attracted to others who appear interested in them.

Define yourself.

Have a clear vision of who you are and what you represent. During a conversation, what you do for a living and your goals for the future will be likely topics to arise. People want to hear your ideas, but be a bit generic until you are in a deeper conversation and more comfortable with the person you are speaking with. Everyone has an opinion and believes in their worldview, so don’t get too emotionally involved.

Consume mindfully.

Be aware of how much you are eating and drinking. You have probably been to functions where people have said or done things they are not proud of the next day. It boils down to how you want to be remembered at this or any other event. Make a good impression.

Engage in appropriate humor.

There is a time and a place for humor, so be smart about what you say and take care not to insult anyone with sarcasm. Clean jokes or funny remarks in a conversation keep it light and upbeat. If you are not naturally funny, learn a few subtle jokes. Interaction with humor will give you confidence.

Go with your gut.

We all evoke energy and vibrations at different frequencies. If you are not “feeling it” when speaking with someone, be polite but move on. The idea is to meet as many people as you can who have common interests that you naturally resonate with at a high level.

Make contacts.

Exchange phone numbers or business cards to keep in touch with new prospects or people you had a great time with. This is an opportunity not to be the consummate salesman. If you want to talk to them again, let them know it and be humble.

These are just a few strategies you can use to become more recognized and well received. Be who you are, make a few changes to your approach, and polish your new abilities. Continue to improve your people skills, and you soon may be the life of every party and occasion.

Timothy J. Gay, DC, is a national speaker, an author, and the founder of Ultimate Practice. He has helped thousands of chiropractors improve their practices through his straightforward, experiential speaking style. He can be contacted at 866- 797-8366, drgay@ultimatepractice.com, or through ultimatepractice.com.