Archive for May 2009
Maximizing Networking Events by Kristin Mentz, Career Marketing Strategist
Thursday, May 7, 2009 | 11:44 amAfter attending yesterday’s seminar event sponsored by the Western Anne Arundel County Chamber for small businesses on “Harness the Power of Social Networking for Your Business”, I wanted to share with other networkers, job seekers, and business developers, that it was well worth the non-member cost of $20 for me to attend.
Here are a few reasons why my money and time were well spent:
1. Having a commitment on my calendar got me up out of bed, got me to dress professionally, and got me pumped up to learn and meet others.
2. Reconnecting there with a friend that I told about the event was a nice ice breaker. It was supportive to have someone to sit with and initially chat together. And surprisingly enough, another good friend showed up to attend on behalf of her company whom I’d not seen in ages!
3. The energy of the topic and information rejuvenated my spirits to continue to self teach myself the Web 2.0 technology, social networking functions, and the jargon to go along with it. As I learn to navigate this technology, I’m eager to share with others who might be just as overwhelmed or intimidated by all this ‘new stuff’.
4. Tips, tools, ideas, resources, and how to’s that were very simply explained and demonstrated were a reward in itself! Learning the ways of Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn and the value they can provide to my job search, client base, and community involvement were simply invaluable. I know the session only glossed the surface, but it gave me enough food for fodder and the ability to test out on my own.
5. Making several new connections with attendees are always enlightening, but specifically meeting the speaker, Glenn Garnes, was motivating in itself. His web site and radio show share a wealth of free resources and help individuals and businesses learn how to grow relationships and use this new technology to support them. He also personally gave me a few ideas of writing services I could provide to others.
This is just one example of many persons I’ve met locally, so by meeting Glenn, I hope to help grow his connections within my own network of similar minded persons, like Jeremy Epstein who shares about Community Driven Marketing and Raving Fans. Additionally, I will nurture and support my own quest for social networking knowledge through Glenn’s expertise. It’s a foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship. There is a gentle balance here, so I encourage you to take those few extra minutes to nurture new connections and relationships as we all explore the social networking avenues.
Lastly, look for and find those local events that ‘speak to you’. And make a point of attending and following through. Better yet, stretch yourself a bit. Step out of your box a little to learn something different or meet even just one new person at an event. I think you’ll find it worth your time, money, and effort. I hope to see you ‘out and about’!
If you have any comments or questions feel free to contact Kristin at Kristin@PinnacleCareerResources.com or follow her on Twitter at KM2Marketing
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