Kathryn Doud

Wednesday was my introduction into the world of networking. Adam from BaldyDog invited me to join the Professional Business Network luncheon, which was held at Maggiano’s. I was definitely nervous about this occasion, but I did my best to look professional and I knew that it could not possibly be as bad as I imagined.  And it wasn’t!  Granted, walking up to a stranger and introducing yourself with the intention of promoting yourself and your business is uncomfortable- but once everyone in the room is doing the same thing, it begins to seem normal.

I worked a genuine smile and strong handshake (I hope), and struck up conversations with business people in which I mostly listened while they described their work. Going in with a “this is just an experience” attitude, I wasn’t expecting to make any connections related to my career plans.

For this reason, I was surprised to begin talking to a young man who shared my interest for writing- and although he didn’t major in journalism, he did some writing and editing for his college’s publication. Mike, who is in the advertising department at the Chamber of Commerce magazine, took my information, and I later had the opportunity to speak with Concetta, from the same publication, who is head of sales and marketing.  I was given her card and instructions to contact her at the end of this month.

Surprise number 2 was yet another prospect:  Brian, the circulation director of the Philadelphia Business Journal (http://philadelphia.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/), attended the luncheon.  He suggested that I give the editor a call at the end of this week.

Not only might this networking event give me an advantage in my job search, but- at times- I was actually enjoying myself. The food was tasty and the event’s speaker was enlightening and funny. Not a bad way to kill an afternoon.

Have you found a networking event to be helpful to your business or job search?