Throw Your Own Networking Party
Let me first say that if you are looking for networking opportunities there are a ton right under your nose. Amy wrote about Meetup, which is a great way to find people with similar interests. Plus, I believe if you are a Gen Y’er on the job hunt, you should join a professional organization related to your field and attend their events.
However, if you feel like you keep running into all the same people, or if you are looking for a certain type of networking event you just can’t find in your area, my suggestion is to throw your own party. Amy talked about creating your own Meetup group, but here are a few more ways to bring the party to you:
- Give the people what they want. Ask the network you already have – your Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn connections – what type of event they would be willing to attend. You are giving the people who chime in a sense of ownership, you form a little committee and you’ll be remembered as the event planner and organizer.
- Organize a successful tweetup. Get to know the people you interact with already online.
- Be detailed oriented. Do not just pick the trendiest spot to host an event. Keep it in a professional atmosphere and convenient location. Remember things like parking and cost that might deter potential attendees.
- Ask your favorite people to come and help promote it. Who are the influencers in your life? Who do you “stalk” regularly online because they always share good information or are always doing interesting things? Ask them to be part of your online promotion to generate awareness and buzz.
- Send personal invites. Mass e-mails are easily deleted, but if you start your event by reaching out to people on an individual basis and telling them why you’d like to meet them – it will be much more difficult for them to say no.
GETDOT, an organization based in Columbus, OH with almost 1,000 LinkedIn members, started as just a couple guys going to happy hour. Start small, then start inviting and before you know it, you’ll be the one giving advice to others on how to network!
About the Author
Gina Bericchia is a student of life and social media. She is a writer and Generation Y blogger. She graduates from Otterbein College in June 2010 with degrees in Public Relations and English.
