Any advice on getting better at schmoozing? I hate the boys club at work, but the dynamic at every work social function leads me to believe that I'm missing out because I'm not doing it right.

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Just don’t end up playing yourself in the process. You can’t trust them. They will try to throw you under the bus, quick.

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The horribly frustrating thing is that they should be figuring out ways to talk to us!!! Women are insanely valuable and important for agencies, just even in an optical sense— they need us. And they need to act like they need us. I’m going through some feelings right now bc my CCO could not be more of a bro. Like all he does is post pics of him and “the guys” at the office. Its just so annoying to me, and frankly it’s a terrible look for the agency. You can’t project that to the rest of the world, bc it makes the agency look filled with bros. He should be putting out photos and posts about the awesome work that the women and POC are making— that would inspire others who are not white dudes- to want to join the agency.

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Sports. Movies. Stay on top of adweek, and whatever else everyone is reading (😬 - I have had to stop caring...) because I’ve found they are ALL reading that shit and gossiping about other agencies. Also, HBO, AMC, Netflix, Amazon. Have opinions on all the latest and greatest trendy shows. Find out who directed what. Or if the art direction was cool, what the story is behind it. Talk to your reps. What are the hot and trendy ideas other agencies are producing.

I realize I’m talking about my own department, but all these boys discuss the same shit.

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I hate schmoozing. It’s so dumb. It’s all game.

I never liked competing. I’m a better listener, and would just take an opportunity to chime in here or there. I’ve been in PR for a few years.... I forget how utterly EXHAUSTING it is to try to keep up with the “boys club”. 🙄😑

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Ugh. I HATE that scene and I hate schmoozing... but I try to find common ground - house projects, sports, beer... sometimes that helps...

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Knowing the drinks well can help start conversations. I hear being prepared to tell a few good stories also helps. Especially if they are amusing (but harmless) office/client stories.
Knowing what they are into (what TV show or sport) and being familiar with it can be a good conversation topic.

Although to be honest, I think the boys club mentality is to talk with those who have power and influence to bring you to the the top with them. Having that ultimate card (or creating the illusion of it) appears to be part of the game.

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Just don’t use a fake voice!!!!

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