No Need to Correct the Other Person
During dinner gathering, I learned a friend's warehouse had a fire accident. Part of the building was burned. Most of my friends did not know that I am in the general insurance industry. A few other friends gave advises on insurance and explained the claim process which are incorrect.The conversation went for nearly 15 minutes and finally exhausted itself. I kept quiet the whole time. Just before the group changed the topic, I told the fire victim to work closely with her insurance broker, and the authorities to ensure a smooth claim process.
After the dinner, another friend pulled me aside asked me why I did not speak up during the discussion. I told her that the dinner was a social gathering, there is no need to be proof my superiority. Correcting others in that public manner only hurt the other party's ego. The conversation may get argumentative. I don't want to spoil everyone's night.
As a professional, unless asked there is no need share our opinion and knowledge. As for the fire victim, I have asked her to work closely with her broker and authorities. She should be in good hands. As for the individuals who offered the wrong information, they are not in the general insurance industry nor a fire victim. There are no losses. As such, not speaking up or correcting other is the right decision.