Networking/Netwerking. No matter how you dress it up, networking is just another dreaded task on the ever-growing adulting checklist, especially if you’re an introvert like myself. It is essential however, in growing your #brand, selling your product, or making connections within your industry. In other words, get used to it because you gotta do it!
After attending dozens of networking events (and sucking at them), including the Afropolitan Cities mixer just last month, I feel I’m finally getting the hang of this! If you’re a networking event hopper like myself, here are a few things to keep in mind:
3 Do’s & 1 Don’t When Attending Networking Events
1. Don’t Be Afraid to Attend Solo 🙇🏾♀️
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, don’t let the fear of attending an event solo keep you from a great experience. Often times, I find that this increases my chances of making a connection as it forces me out of my comfort zone.
(If you felt this on a spiritual level, click to tweet! Use #ablackgirlabouttown)
2. Do Prepare to Pitch Yourself 🗣
I recently started a monthly newsletter to keep my Philly friends in the know about different events happening in the city (shameless plug 🤷🏾♀️). When I mentioned this at a networking event, not only did I gain new subscribers, I was able to gain valuable feedback. None of this would’ve happened had I decided to remain tight-lipped. In this setting, it’s totally appropriate to big up yuself!
3. Do Exchange Information ♻️
Imagine having a bomb conversation at a newtorking event, only to realize later that you forgot to exchange information. Don’t let this happen. Always keep business cards handy or ask to exchange social media info.
4. Do Follow up 📧
If you did end up exchanging information, you may want to follow up the next day or so with a message via email or social media. Same goes for the event organizer. I’m sure they’ll be grateful for the feedback.
What tips would you add to this list?
– A Black Girl About Town
A Black Girl About Town 
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Great post! Like you, I too am not the best at making my presence known at these types of events. But, like you mentioned, we have to do it. And it really is worth it!
It all gets easier with repetition. We just have to push past the fear. Thanks for reading 💖
Thank you so much for writing this post. All these pointers are imperative when attending networking events. These events are so important because with the competitive job market, sometimes it’s who you know that gives you the edge over the other candidates. The only thing I would add is to ensure to dress to impress which is self-explanatory.
Oh yes, that’s a good one! How could I forget dress code lol. And you’re so right, sometimes it’s all about who you know! Thanks for reading 💕