© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.
A cringeworthy networking question I can’t believe someone asked me
The other day I attended a small, social distancing networking event and the invite said “business casual.” So I showed up with dark jeans, heals, a white blouse and a professional blazer jacket.
I was introducing myself to someone and their first remark was, “Is this what business casual looks like these days?”
I mean… seriously? I didn’t even know how to response I was so speechless. Curious, how would you have responded?
Christen Westcott
For personalized weddings and events, Look West.
59
08/10/20 at 3:09PM UTC
Isn't it wild what people have the nerve to say? People like this are deliberately trying to make you uncomfortable and feel belittled. Don't let them. Maintain your confidence, hold your head high and smile, and it'll drive them crazy knowing they couldn't make you flinch. I always like to say that if someone is laser-focused on my every move and styling choice, they must be incredibly insecure and not have much going on with their own lives. People who are confident in themselves and busy with their own stuff don't have time or energy for petty judgments.
Linda Grace SolisDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion
423
08/05/20 at 5:51PM UTC
I would have said, "Yes." then walked away to find someone less judgy and rude to talk to.
Lisa Mears Lynch
41
08/05/20 at 12:53PM UTC
I would have smiled and said, "Looks good, doesn't it?"
Christen WestcottFor personalized weddings and events, Look West.
59
08/10/20 at 3:11PM UTC
YES the perfect response!
Aly BrineHelping Corporate Hippies thrive on LinkedIn!
1.59k
08/05/20 at 12:47PM UTC
That's my go to outfit for a lot of events!
Jeannette Grand
21
08/05/20 at 12:35PM UTC
I probably would’ve quipped, “is that what inappropriate sounds like these days?” ?
Lauren HuttonCorporate Communications Professional
29
08/05/20 at 11:23AM UTC
Agreed - the comment was rude and unnecessary. I'd suggest it was also a lack of comfort with breaking the 'norms' for this individual, however jeans paired with a blazer sounds appropriate for a networking event. It's also not in good taste for this individual to share personal judgments so freely at a networking event. Lack of E.I.? The scope of 'business casual' continues to evolve. I am also curious about the age/gender of the individual that commented. I hope you were able to brush it off and not let it affect the outcome of the event for you.
Rebeca EvantashStrategic integrated marketing leader
223
08/05/20 at 10:52AM UTC
Curious: what was the person’s gender who said this, and how were they dressed? I am in a creative industry, so business casual is pretty low key. Not sure what my response would have been. Probably just so shocked I would have likely not said anything, but instead exited the conversation. Some people have zero tact.
The Career CounterCareer reinvention for moms
479
08/05/20 at 2:33AM UTC
I second that...a rude and unnecessary comment! I think I would have been completely caught off guard and would have been speechless as well. What I would have wanted to say was "I didn't realize the clothing police would be here!"
TanaArchitect, Wife, Mother in no particular order
51
08/05/20 at 2:28AM UTC
The comment could have been more out of ignorance than commenting on your particular outfit. I know that business casual in architecture / engineering is VERY different than business casual in real estate. In addition, it has gotten less formal as I have been in the business. Was the comment from an older person that may not be up on the latest fashion trends in your area?
Julie S.I'm an engineer doing environmental compliance.
124
08/05/20 at 12:24AM UTC
It sounds like you were dressed lovely! What a rude comment and really shows the lack of interpersonal skills on behalf of that person. I suppose it depends on the industry, some are more formal than others. But this isn't an interview!
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.