It's time to start networking again.
After two years of virtual events that never really lent themselves to inter-personal networking, we're starting to see more and more in-person events taking place across the FinTech space in London. So what's stopping you networking?
“I don’t have time!”
If that’s your answer to “Should I go to the next networking event?”, I'd ask you to reconsider. There are more benefits to networking events than you may be aware of. An immediate return on your “investment” may not be obvious, but regular networking pays off slowly over time, often when you least expect it.
Here are some reasons why you should attend a networking event:
You learn to represent yourself
“So, what do you do?” This question is very simple, but you’ll find that answering it isn’t. Trying to summarise who you are and what it is that you do in a few sentences is incredibly difficult. Thinking about this question, and answering it time and time again helps you nail down your own narrative. This gives you confidence in yourself, and it helps you ask yourself the right questions about how to advance in your career. You’ll learn how to pitch your own narrative to others and highlight important aspects of your education/job fit/vision.
You stay up-to-date with industry topics
In today’s fast paced world, it’s nearly impossible to stay ahead of the trends around you. Instead of spending hours doing your own research, exchanging ideas with your peers from similar and other environments you can save time and learn abstract information effortlessly. Moreover, exchanging ideas and receiving feedback can spark inspiration for your own projects or future collaborations. Maybe someone is facing the same problem as you - solving it together almost guarantees a quicker solution.
You make lasting connections
Networking events are not purely business-orientated. Driven by mutual interests, you may well find someone who can become a life-long listener and supporter in your professional as well as your personal life.
You boost your confidence
It’s challenging to walk into a room full of strangers and start a conversation. But, you are all there with the same objective: to connect with new people. You can always start a conversation with “What made you come to this event?” when you approach someone. You’ll see that your initial doubts will soon disperse as the ice breaks. Over time, you’ll become less inhibited to simply approach someone - even outside of networking events!
You attract people you need
Networking is a must while you start and develop your own business. There is a good chance that others are just waiting to meet someone like you, and you can meet the perfect business partner to kickstart your own ideas. You won’t know if you never try!
Networking offers limitless possibilities and one “hello” might open a lot of doors for inspiring opportunities as well as lifelong friendships. So, why not give it a try?
Looking for a new and exciting network event near you? Head to Meetup.com and browse their list of amazing upcoming events.