Networking events. Ugh, right?
Wrong.
Over the course of my career, I’ve been subjected to the trial that is a post-conference industry networking event many times. It is not my favourite thing. However, the higher you rise in some industries, the more time you spend conferencing. For example, by the end of next week I will have spent 5 of the past 10 business days attending conferences. Which means I have spent most of those nights making awkward conversation with quasi-colleagues from across the country. I can’t begin to describe how excited that makes me.
Was that too cynical?
This brings me to the crux of my point. Much as it pains me to say it.
We should be more excited about networking events.
You never saw that coming, did you? Well, it’s true. Despite the awkwardness, the unfortunate house wine, and the majority of attendees fitting a particular stereotype elegantly outlined in this brilliant post. We need to embrace the opportunity that networking events provide.
There is a reason that the people who show up to all of these events seem to know everyone and look like they belong. It’s because they show up to all of the events. They get to know everyone. And they make themselves belong.
There is something to be said for showing up.
It might be difficult, it might be daunting, and at first you may feel like a complete outsider. But if you don’t show up, you’re missing out on all of the opportunities that these events provide. More to the point, you’re leaving all of these opportunities to the people who already benefit from them. Getting to know more people in your industry is always worth doing. You are much more likely to receive work from a person you have met, than from a complete stranger. It is a lot easier to call and offer your services to someone you’ve spoken to before.
Going to these events is a bit like starting a new fitness regime. At first you’re not used to it. You’re tired. Some days you have to force yourself to follow through. You hurt in places you didn’t realise could hurt. You wish you’d never bought that stupid treadmill in the first place.
But after a while, you get used to the movements. You’re more comfortable, you feel the benefits, and you can see the worth in doing it.
Suddenly, you’re the one who knows everyone, who is always there. Who belongs.
Become the new normal.
As I’ve alluded to before, you might find a serious lack of diversity at some of these types of events. This can be off-putting and disillusioning (it sure has been for me), particularly if you identify as part of a demographic that tends not to be represented.
For what it’s worth, if we want more diversity – in the makeup of companies, of boards, of who gets the big jobs – those of us who don’t fit the ‘typical’ stereotype have to show up. It’s not enough to talk about it. Don’t let the idea of standing out intimidate you. We need to own the fact that we deserve to be there.
How are we going to do that if we frame networking events in such a negative way?
This is my challenge to you.
Re-frame these events as something that will help you to succeed. They are a chance to increase business. They are an opportunity, not a problem. You don’t ‘stand out’ – you’re a highlight.
Thoughts? Comments? Leave a reply below!
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