How to Find Networking Events Worth Going To

How to Find Networking Events Worth Going ToHow to Find Networking Events Worth Going ToThe reason togrow your networkis clear the bigger your network, the more likely you are to know someone who can offer career help, whether by making an introduction, serving as a reference, or more. The easy way to build up your network is with current and former colleagues. But once those relationships are in place, and youre connected on LinkedIn, how else can you expand your network? One option is attendingnetworking events. Theyre designed to help people form connections. The trick is, first you have to find the right events. Get tips on how to find networking events, as well as how to make the most of them. 5 Ways to Find Networking Events 1. Talk to Friends and Colleagues Never underestimate the power of word of mouth Colleagues will often know industry-focused networking events. Friends who do not work in your industry can share how they find events. (And, even attending out-of-industry events can lead to meeting interesting people.) Ask co-workers and friends about any professional events theyre planning to attend or ones theyve enjoyed in the past - this can include breakfast discussions or networking events, happy hour events, conferences, roundtables, lectures and discussions, classes, and so much more. Yourmentorsare a good source for recommendations, too. 2. Browse Networking Sites Thanks to the internet, there are tons of ways to find events, conferences, and specifically networking-focused events, all categorized by geographic location. Two of the most popular and well-known sites include Meetup- Explore free and low-cost in-person meet-ups in your industry, whether its beauty, tech, photography, or something else. Theres also a category for career and geschftsleben events with a wide variety of career-focused groups that meet regularly.Eventbrite- This event-based site has listing pages for free and paid events. Youll find fairs, festivals, discussions, conferences, classes, and much more. 3. Check Social Media and Your Inbox Do you follow industry organizations on social media (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram) and subscribe to newsletters? Many organizations put on annual or even more frequent events. If youre involved in media, publishing, or public relations, for instance, youll want to follow MediaBistro and Muckrack on social media and subscribe to their newsletters, since both organizations frequently host networking events, conferences, and host classes. Look for the organizations in your industry and follow them on social media and through newsletters. If youre not sure which organizations are big, ask colleagues, post on LinkedIn, or do a quick online search. 4. Alumni and Affinity Organizations Your college or graduate school can also be a rich source of events - they may host holiday parties which are an ideal place to make your elevator pitch and share a geschftsleben card. Colleges and universities also fre quently host events and conversations which are also a great place to meet people. Affinity groups form around interests, goals, and sometimes identity. Some organizations, for instance, have affinity groups for LGBTQ people, or for women, or for people with disabilities, etc. You can join a group at your office, or seek out one outside of your company. For instance,DamesBondis a woman-focused networking organization, whileOut Professionalsis a membership-driven organization that has job listings, networking events, professional development, and more services for members. 5. Local Organizations For more places to find networking events, think local your library or religious institution may host events. You may also find events open to all at community organizations, co-working spaces, and through your local chamber of commerce. Make the Most of Networking Events Going to endless events can be fun or exhausting, but its not helpful to your career by default. Here are a few tips o n how to ensure that happy hour events, conferences, breakfast roundtables, and other networking events truly aid your networking, and in turn, your career. Expand your definition of networking.Some events are specifically identified as having the purpose of networking. But keep in mind that any time you meet someone - from a book reading to a crafting meet-up - is an opportunity to expand the number of people you know. Networking doesnt have to be forced it can be a matter of making acquaintances and friendships. Know what you want to get out of the event.Are you going to the event to learn more about a topic, to meet people, or to connect with someone at a specific company youd like to work for? Having a specific goal can be helpful, even if its just Introduce myself to two people who are in my field and exchange business cards or connect on LinkedIn. If you want to meet people, youll have to introduce yourself, join in icebreaker games, and converse. If youre on the shy side - or introverted - this may seem a bit challenging. Remind yourself that probably everyone is a bit nervous - not just you. Set a goal to talk to just one or two people. Ask questions and connect by talking about the events theme or topics of conversations. (Here are morenetworking tips for introverts.) Be prepared with an elevator pitch.If there is something specific youre hoping to get out of an event, come prepared with anelevator pitch. That is, if youre hunting for a job, starting off a new business, transitioning careers, etc., be prepared with a 30-second quick speech of your background and experience, and what youre looking for next. Follow up with meaningful contacts.Even a thousand LinkedIn contacts wont help you if none of them remember who you are. It is a good idea to connect with people on LinkedIn - and, in general, cant do any harm. But if you meet one or two people that you have an in-depth conversation, send a quick email or LinkedIn message to let them know you enjo yed your conversation.