Vent: I used to hate networking events until I changed one small thing

For years, I'd go to those big chamber of commerce mixers and just feel awkward, collecting business cards I never used. The problem was I was trying to talk to everyone. About six months ago, I decided to try something different. I started going with a single goal: have one real conversation with just two people. Last month at an event in Tampa, I spent the whole hour talking to a local bakery owner about her supply chain issues and a guy who runs a small print shop. We actually exchanged ideas, and the print guy ended up connecting me with a client the very next week. It turns out going deep with a couple folks is way better than skimming the surface with twenty. Has anyone else tried setting a tiny, specific goal like that before walking into a room?

3 comments

3 Comments

emery19927d ago

Honestly, my game changer was showing up ten minutes early to the hotel conference room in Charlotte. The room is mostly empty then, so you can actually talk to the organizers or the first few people who wander in without all the noise. It feels less like a crowded party and more like a normal chat, and you already have a couple familiar faces before the real crowd shows up. Tbh it takes all the pressure off because you aren't fighting to be heard.

jake_torres6822d ago

But what if you're the awkward one standing there alone?

sean78227d ago

Totally agree, I always grab a seat near the door for an easy exit and less pressure.

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