It is shown that effective conflict resolution can improve workplace relationships by up to 50%. When a colleague is tarnishing your personal brand at a networking event, it’s crucial to address the situation with professionalism and poise. Calmly clarify any misconceptions in a private conversation to communicate your perspective without escalating tensions. If the situation arises in public, maintain your composure and respond with grace, redirecting the conversation to your accomplishments and strengths. This not only reinforces your brand but also demonstrates your ability to handle adversity. After the event, consider following up with key contacts to share your insights and experiences.

Calmly clarify any misconceptions in a private conversation to communicate your perspective without escalating tensions. If the situation arises in public, maintain your composure and respond with grace, redirecting the conversation to your accomplishments and strengths. This not only reinforces your brand but also demonstrates your ability to handle adversity. After the event, consider following up with key contacts to share your insights and experiences.

Stay calm and avoid reacting emotionally. Approach the colleague privately to understand their concerns and clarify any misunderstandings. At the event, focus on sharing your authentic story and strengths with others, showcasing your expertise through positive interactions. If appropriate, politely correct any misinformation in a professional manner, letting your character and work speak for themselves.

Here’s how I’d set the record straight: Stay Calm and Professional: I’d avoid reacting emotionally and instead wait for a natural opportunity to address the situation directly. Clarify with Facts: If I get a chance to join the conversation, I’d respectfully share my perspective and achievements, subtly correcting any misinformation with examples of my work. Follow Up Privately with Key Contacts: After the event, I’d reach out to anyone impacted, briefly setting the record straight and reaffirming my commitment to professionalism. Address It with the Colleague Directly: In a calm, one-on-one setting, I’d discuss the situation with the colleague to prevent future misunderstandings.

Quando um colega prejudica sua marca pessoal em um evento de networking, acredito que a comunicação direta e respeitosa é a melhor abordagem. Conversar em particular para entender o ponto de vista dele e expressar suas preocupações pode ajudar a desarmar a situação e evitar mal-entendidos futuros. Além disso, ao esclarecer equívocos, é importante ser assertivo, compartilhando suas conquistas e valores com clareza. Ao fazer isso, você reafirma sua identidade profissional e mostra, por meio de ações e comportamentos, que está comprometido com a excelência. Essa consistência em demonstrar suas habilidades e profissionalismo é fundamental para fortalecer sua marca pessoal e restaurar a confiança do seu público.

If the colleague is doing it purposely, we may have to show our attitude as well. We cannot take things for granted. If the person is genuine, they would have contacted us privately. But if they are doing it in front of others, their agenda is different. Thus, we may have to put them in their place & make sure that they do not repeat the same mistake again

Authenticity goes a long way, same as respect. Some colleagues may just be disrespectful at all levels, meaning nonviolent communication may or may not work at this level. If I approach, share a piece of my mind authentically with them and they are ignorant of how their actions affect me, I will get advice or seek a third party opinion later on with the aim to resolve the matter and trying to understand things from their point of view. I have learnt that hurt people also hurt people. This maybe consciously or unconsciously. Eventually, there may be a resolve or not, but the effort will surely give you a good sense of inner piece.