Reposted from Tim Richardson

Stepping Into the Room: Why Showing Up Matters More Than You Think

That awkward, uncomfortable moment is exactly where the magic happens. The insights, connections, and stories that can transform your professional (and personal) life often start the moment you step into the room. In my latest article, I share why showing up – especially to pre-event receptions – matters more than most people realize, and how curiosity and thoughtful questions can turn nervous introductions into lasting opportunities.

We’ve all faced it – walking into a room where we don’t know anyone, while it seems like everyone else already knows each other. It can feel uncomfortable, awkward, even intimidating. But stepping into that discomfort often leads to the most valuable conversations, insights, and connections – both professionally and personally. Here’s why I still go to pre-event receptions and how you can make the most of them. I had a conversation recently with a speaking colleague about attending receptions the evening before a corporate or association event. He shared that he now prefers to stay in his room. His reasoning? It can feel awkward walking into a room where you don’t know anyone – and it seems like everyone else already knows each other. I understand that perspective. But I still go. And more often than not, I walk away with something valuable – an insight, a story, or a perspective that makes my presentation more relevant and impactful for the audience. You may not be a professional speaker, but you’ve likely been in similar situations – walking into a room where you don’t know many, or any, of the people there. The easy path is to avoid it or leave early when it feels uncomfortable. (And to be honest, I’ve done both.) But I’d like to offer a different perspective. Research shows that most people feel this same discomfort – and we tend to overestimate how awkward these interactions will be. In fact, studies on what’s called the “liking gap” have found that people typically like us more than we think they do after a conversation. In other words, the room you’re walking into is full of people who are likely feeling the same way you are. Instead of avoiding the situation, take a moment to pause. Think of a time when you met someone you instantly connected with.

What brought you together?
How did you feel after that conversation?
Now remind yourself: there is someone just like that in this room – and it’s your job to find them. Some of the most valuable insights don’t come from formal sessions – they come from informal conversations. Research on the “strength of weak ties” shows that brief interactions with new people often lead to fresh ideas, new perspectives, and unexpected opportunities. That’s exactly what happens at these events.
A short conversation can turn into:
A story you’ll never forget
An idea you hadn’t considered