King of the Reunion
July 24, 2010, By Victor Medina 0 comments
The family and company picnics may seem like different events, but each brings with it a need for today's man to make a favorable impression.
Despite their similarities, the purposes for both events are different. At the family picnic or reunion, people seek fellowship and a chance to make positive memories with relatives. At the company picnic, people seek to build relationships and improve company morale by interacting socially with those in their professional life. In addition, the company picnic offers the opportunity for individual advancement should a boss or supervisor see a side of an employee they don't usually see in the workplace.
No matter what the setting or purpose, your approach should be the same. You want to have a commanding leadership presence (without being overbearing), all while being personable and approachable. Finding the right balance is key.
Who to impress. It is important to identify who you want to make a good impression on. At a family picnic, it could be a grandparent or some other head of the family. At a company picnic, it could be one or more bosses. Either way, you should learn as much as possible about them, including their likes and dislikes, and use that information to connect with them throughout the event. Don't be overly assertive; bosses in particular can spot a kiss-up a mile away.
Volume does not equal authority. You will want to be talkative and outgoing at the gathering, but do not overdo it. Speak only when necessary or when you have a good point. We've all seen enough loud, obnoxious idiots in social situations to know that a river of verbiage does not earn you respect. A properly elevated tone exerts authority but shouldn't carry far beyond the person or group you are speaking to.
Look for opportunities to step up. Often, both the family and company picnic have events or activities that may need organization or leadership. It could be a game, speeches, or help setting up or tearing down tents and tables, but don't miss a chance to take charge of a situation. At a family picnic, it will win favor among your relatives. At a company picnic, it may attract the attention of your superiors. Just be careful not to volunteer or take charge of anything that takes you away from the action. For example, don't volunteer to drive somewhere to get ice.
Ask others to "help" you. One of the characteristics of being a good leader is getting others to follow you. If you can take charge of something at the picnic, ask others to assist you. It works more people into the action, which they will appreciate, and it sets you in a leadership position.
Avoid alcohol. Staying away from alcohol may make for a boring company picnic, but you do not want the boss to remember you as the guy who had a beer in hand the whole afternoon. It could give the wrong impression. At family picnics, alcohol tends to dredge up old family arguments or start new ones. You don't want to be remembered as the guy who ruined a perfectly good picnic or family reunion. You'll never shake the reputation.
Be yourself. This sounds like a no-brainer, but how many times have you seen someone try to bring attention to themselves at a company picnic or family reunion and look like an idiot? Don't try to impress anyone by talking about subjects you know nothing about. Do not claim to have done something you haven't. Men can't keep track of the lies they tell and any bragging you do in public, especially in a work setting, will eventually come back to bite you.
When necessary, state your thoughts and opinions. In some cases, it could cause disagreements, but life's too short to pretend to be someone else for the sake of a boss or family. Who knows? Being honest could get you invited to more picnics in the future.
