Let's Network In Person!

Who is ready to network in person again?  I know most of us have had many virtual meetings over the last couple of years.

VIRTUAL NETWORKING

Since March of 2020, the “cheese” moved to the virtual world when it came to networking and meeting others.   Some in-person events were held and they were few and far between.  In almost two years there were virtually (no pun intended) no in-person events.   Many asked during this time what can be done to network as the in-person events stopped.

January 6, 2021, Wednesday Wisdom weekly networking was born running every week at 11:00 am as we entered the mid-point of our week.  Thanks to so many supporters and suggestions, we learned to connect virtually and build on these relationships.

WEDNESDAY WISDOM IS NOW IN-PERSON

Wednesday Wisdom networking funs the first Wednesday of the month and it is in-person.! This month we are having it on the second Wednesday of the month which is tonight at River's Edge from 5:00 pm to 7:oo pm.  This networking group is open to everyone who is interested in making new connections, having good discussions and creating opportunities for each other.

There is no formal agenda, no roll call and no fees to be part of this group.  Everyone is welcomed.

NETWORKING TIPS

We might need a refresher in networking at events and remember to keep practicing social distance.  Greet the person by saying hello, make eye contact, skip the handshake, and do the fist or elbow pump which seems to be acceptable in social settings and some are back to shaking hands again.  Ask for their name and to share their story, share your name and then share your story.

Be genuine, listen effectively, ask questions and make it about them.  It is not about you.  Yes, make it about them.  Practice this by really listening, asking questions, and repeating what they said to show you understand.  Build the relationship first and when the time is right you can move into the selling part of the relationship.

RESUMES & BROCHURES

I have been asked this many times by attendees of networking events if it is appropriate to bring resumes.   My simple answer is no.  If you hand me your resume, where can I put it while I’m standing juggling a beverage and handing you my business card?   I do not want to fold it or get it wrinkled or dirty.

You can ask if the person is aware of their organization's hiring and for what position or share your career path to see if the company is a good fit to consider.   Ask who you can send the resume.   Move the conversation back to them once you have shared your story.

The same thing applies to brochures and corporate folders.   It is difficult to review these on the spot and to keep them neat and clean.   Ask if you can e-mail the information or better yet, set up an intro meeting whether it is a phone call, in-person if it is in a safe setting or a virtual meeting.

LET’S NETWORK AGAIN!

Can you tell I’m excited to be networking in person again!

What networking events are you attending virtually or in person?

(Originally published on 06.08.22)