The importance of networking events
In a world where face-to-face contact has been limited, travel all but stopped and business has been conducted via Zoom you could be forgiven for thinking that the age-old Networking event has had its day. That however couldn’t be further from the truth. Networking has long proven benefits that any business, and indeed individual, can continue to benefit from.
Networking events may appear daunting, even for the more outgoing characters but their rewards are plentiful, not to mention they can be enjoyable and even fun.
The aim of a networking event is to meet new people and to establish connections. Networking events open the door to so many potential opportunities or relationships you may not have been able to make without the event. You may be a graduate or student looking for prospective employers; careers fairs are essentially networking events. A place where you can get to know potential employers, what they stand for, and find out more about them, beyond what their webpage tells you. Importantly, employers get to meet you too and you have the opportunity to open a dialogue with them and get on their radar. This can also double up as excellent interview practice. You need to get used to talking about yourself and not being afraid to sing your own praises.
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Alternatively, you may be a business owner looking to create new connections and generate potential leads for your business. Business owners with a penchant for networking have been able to grow and expand their business effortlessly because of the opportunities networking has provided them. Networking events can put you in front of the right clientele or simply the right people to help grow your business. Networking events have all but championed the phrase ‘it’s not what you know but who you know’. Just be sure to get yourself a rememberable business card to take with you to these events; companies such as The Foil Printing Co can help with this.
Networking events offer more than just the opportunity to meet people who may benefit you. They are a place that puts you in a room with like-minded people, people who may inspire or motivate you. By attending a networking event you may find yourself learning new skills and embarking on professional, or even personal, development. Live events can reach you in a way that a webinar or Zoom lesson cannot. The impact of live events should not be underestimated. You may even get to meet that business mogul or personal development idol you look up to. If you do and you are able to successfully form a relationship with them the potential to glean advice and support from their years of experience is priceless.
Although it may not seem like a positive at the time, attending a networking event, is likely to push you out of your comfort zone. You can no longer hide behind a screen or articulate yourself in an email. It may feel daunting but forcing yourself out from under your security blanket will do your confidence the world of good.
Finally, don’t forget to have fun. Networking events are sociable events designed to be enjoyed by the attendees. Whether you are nervous or excited just try and enjoy yourself.
