‘Tis the season to attend holiday mixers. On a professional level, there are a lot of reasons why I attend them. A few weeks ago, in the span of 8 days, I attended 5 holiday mixers, an AGM and hosted my monthly virtual coffee break.
Those who follow me, know I am a big believer in networking. You just have to browse through my posts to see… Here is why I attend.
The Hosts
The following folks sponsored/co-sponsored and/or hosted events:
- BDC
- CBDC Humber
- Digital Advertising Solutions
- Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade
- Megan Humphrey Yoga
- Navigate Small Business
- Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs
- Sorrento Restaurant
Throw in an Annual General Meeting for Community Mental Health Initiative Inc. and it was a busy week!
What I gained
I love being with people. Energy. Conversation. Friendship. On that level alone, it is worth it for me to attend holiday mixers. Here’s what else I gained:
- I met several people in person for the first time (We have met previously virtually during the COVID years; however, never in person before)
- Reconnection with folks I had not seen in awhile
- New contacts in the ecosystem
- Secured two sponsors for my monthly entrepreneur coffee break
- Spoke to a previous client about starting a new contract with them in the coming months
- Hugs!
- Heard from one contact about how her attending my entrepreneur coffee break led directly to a new contract for her
- New ideas
- A few pounds with all the good food!
What I offered
Networking, mixing, collisions are not all one-sided events. They are also about what you can contribute to the relationship. Here’s what I offered:
- My support
- Introductions to others
- Feedback on programs
- My energy
- Hugs!
5 of the above organizations have been direct clients of mine. I feel attending their events shows my belief in them, my support for them, and helps to validate the work they do.
The professional holiday mixers are done. Now it is time to focus on the family events in the coming week. I wish you a Merry Christmas (what I celebrate) and Happy Holidays for those celebrating other festivals and celebrations this season. ~ Carole
