♥CJ♥: How do I prepare for a networking event?
Tonight, I may stop at a women’s conference and seminar which grants women professionals (employed or not) a chance to network and gain knowledge of how to go from surviving the workplace to thriving and achieving higher goals and positions. It is going to be my first networking event, professionally. Any pointers for how I should prepare for this event? I know I should probably have business cards. But my cards are kind of old, I need new ones. How should I go about approaching people if there are job openings at their companies? Since I am not currently working. Thanks.
Answers and Views:
Answer by racergirlturbo
I did a google search and this WikiHow article came up as the second result:
https://www.wikihow.com/Network
Answer by LokiA positive attitude “no matter what” Rose.
Just Go! If you are not able to make new cards by tonight you will simply need to wing it.
Example: (Women professional asks) Mrs. Rose it was nice to meet you, do you have a card with your number so I can contact you?
(Rose replies with a chuckle) Thanks for asking, I’m actually already out of them, but I would LOVE to have one of yours!
or maybe you could say, I do but some of the information is out dated. Can I write my Contact info down for you?
Also somewhere in your bag of tricks is the “Grab the planet and seize the moment!” card.
This is where you extricate yourself by BEING the one who asks them for their cards or information first, before they ask you.
Just go though .. You never know what opportunities could unfold from attending.
Networking with other professional minded people is a powerful way for anyone, to bring good ideas to life.
Best of luck with everything!
loki
First of all, dress like you would for a job interview (unless this is a specific casual affair).
If you have a cell phone, TURN OFF. Nothing can kill a meeting or a good first contact faster than a phone ringing. Your excuse of “I have to take this” tells them that your incoming call is more important than what they have to offer.
By all mean, bring a resume(s) in a small, easy to handle folder or binder. You can leave it with your coat and pull from as needed, or keep it tucked under your arm if you are circulating. You can also take a notepad to place in there, if you should need to take notes.
Asking about openings can be done on the sly without being obvious.
Simply ask :
Has the current economics caused your business to cut back or are you expanding? How is your business handling these tough times? etc
This not only shows you as an intelligent, up-to-date, current affairs type person but allows them to let you know if they have openings.
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