Balancing work and extracurricular activities can be a strain for busy professionals. When you add making time to unwind to the equation, it becomes even more taxing.
The Urban Professionals Network has a solution for the ‘after work wind-down’ dilemma. On Wednesday, April 14, Andre Hill, of AH Entertainment, hosted “Where the Professionals Play Hard,” a mid-week mixer. The noteworthy event was held at Shula’s Grill in Atlanta’s tony Buckhead community.
“I’m creating different ways for people to network and actually make connections on a different scene,” explains Hill.
Young professionals from around Atlanta came out to take advantage of the opportunity to make new acquaintances and fight off the work day doldrums. They spent the evening recapping their day over drinks and music in a sophisticated atmosphere at what was described as the ultimate networking event.
Follow these five things to do at a business networking event and maximize your experience and the personal benefit to you. –christian johnson
1. Dress appropriately. First impressions are lasting impressions.
2. Approach at least 10 people that you have never met before. Be familiar with the current news topics.
3. Don’t complain about the food or the crowd. It is a turn off and it’s unprofessional. You want people to see you in a positive light.
4. Share with everyone who you are and what you do. This is the first step to establishing new relationships and maybe securing new customers for your business. If you’re unemployed, this is your golden opportunity to link up with your next co-worker or boss.
5. Distribute your business cards. Even if you don’t work, you should have a should have a card with your contact information. The whole point of networking events is to establish new relationships which you’ll continue to build on in the future.
