You Have My Full Attention
I recently attended a networking event, and I could not help but notice that about half the people I met were genuinely engaged in conversation while the other half were scanning the room, often looking over my shoulder as if someone more important might suddenly appear. Years ago, I might have thought, “Well, I must not be very interesting.” Today, I simply think, “How rude.” Why does it matter? Because our attention speaks volumes.
When we are fully engaged with another person, we are sending a clear message: You matter. You are worth my time. That simple act fosters connection. It builds trust. And it dramatically increases the likelihood of meaningful exchange, about our work, our interests, and our opportunities. After all, is that not the entire point of networking?
Even if there is no obvious business opportunity, we might learn something, make a helpful introduction, or discover a shared personal interest. You never know where the generosity of attention may lead.
Recently, I read a Wall Street Journal article, “CEOs Are Furious About Employees Texting During Meetings,” by Chip Cutter, October 25, 2025, which called the behavior a “major societal problem.” What is the impact of our texting during meetings? Repeated explanations because people were not listening. Missed instructions because no one wants to admit they were texting instead of paying attention. The result is confusion regarding next steps and wasted time.
The solution begins at the top. Leaders must put down their phones and model full presence. Others will follow. Meetings will be shorter, more effective, and far less frustrating when everyone hears the same message the first time.
And this problem is not limited to professional spaces. We see families at restaurants, physically together yet worlds apart: parents scrolling, children on tablets, everyone connected to a device but disconnected from each other. What happens when an entire generation forgets the art of conversation?
Sometimes we do need to keep an eye on our phones for urgent family or business matters. That is perfectly reasonable. A simple courtesy statement, such as “I am expecting a time-sensitive message,” allows others to understand and feel respected.
So, the next time you find yourself tempted to look around the room for a more promising conversational partner, answer a text during a meeting, or scroll at the dinner table, consider instead the gift of complete presence.
The people in front of you deserve your full attention. And so do you.