AMA Madison is holding our Sip and Shine Summer Social August 26, so it seemed like the perfect time to share four quick networking tricks:
- Nurture your online presence.
Has anyone ever mentioned to you that they see your posts all the time or that they love your online content? Consistent posting means people are seeing you and getting to know you before you ever meet them in person. This can help sidestep some of that awkward uncertainty about what to say when you finally do connect. - Use a conversation starter to spark fun interactions.
When I travel, I like to pack what I call “spirit wear” – A hat or t-shirt that gives a nod to being from Wisconsin. Inevitably, I’ll hear a “Go Badgers!” or “Where in Wisconsin are you from?” Similarly, I know a woman who likes to keep her finger nails fancy with tiny art and jewels, because they serve as conversation starters. And I also know someone you shows up to networking events with his own specially-personalized nametag, which, again, serves as a conversation starter! - Offer to help out.
Sometimes it just takes the edge off to have a task to do – something other than finding someone to talk to (and then… talking to them). If this sounds like you, we have just the thing! Sign up for one of our “Choose Your Own Adventure” flash volunteer opportunities. Or, grab one of these other very important pop-up roles anytime during the event: High-Five Ambassador, Compliment Giver, or Snack Sampler. - Bring backup.
Everything is more fun with friends, so bring some along to your next event – which I hope will be ours! Join us on Tuesday, August 26 from 5-7 pm under the tiki tent at Quivey’s Grove. Yes, that’s right: Tiki tent! Hint: You can register here 😉
