Networking can be agonizing, especially for millennials, who rely far less on face-to-face interaction than their more seasoned colleagues. Yet it’s still a great way to meet hiring managers, decision-makers, movers and shakers who eschew or even resent the digitization of business relationships.
Here’s how millennials can network without leaving their dignity at the door:
1. Find opportunities that fit your style.
Networking pairs well with other activities that don’t have to involve drinking. In April, Aon’s internal communications team pioneered “netwalking,” which pairs networking with a stroll around Chicago’s parks. Collaborative challenges, bowling, and gathering to watch a sports game (even if you dislike sports) are all good ways to take the pressure off handshaking and business-card slinging.
If you can’t find an event that fits your unique style, start your own. Meetup.com is a good place to start “Bubble soccer for PR pros in the city” or even “Health communicators Friday brunch hour.”
2. Bring a friend.
Why are millennials so afraid of social awkwardness? Because they grew up watching “The Office.” Having a trusted someone by your side will soothe those moments in between conversations that make you feel more like a Michael Scott than a Jim.
3. Come prepared with a conversation starter.
It doesn’t have to be fancy. You’re not going to be quoted in Vanity Fair. “Hi, I’m _____” is a perfectly acceptable way to break into a conversation. Starting a conversation with a stranger is tough, which is why you’ll be loved and respected for taking the initiative.
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4. Make it personal.
Networkers are people, too. Just because the networking situation is forced, stilted and stuffy does not mean that the person across from you wants it that way. Find a connection with the person’s company or where they’re from, and if you know nothing about it, ask questions. People who ask good questions and listen to the answers are perceived as more interesting than those who make it about themselves.
5. Bring business cards.
Many millennials don’t have business cards, but the next person who hires you almost certainly does. If your current organization hasn’t had the foresight to provide you with them, you can buy them yourself for as little as $10. By the way, they really do have a purpose: You’re going to connect with all those folks on LinkedIn in the two days following the event. If you think you’re going to remember the 5-10 names of the people you met, you’re kidding yourself.
6. Stay to the bitter end. Your first instinct may be to bounce as soon as the crowd thins, but do yourself a favor--don’t. If you can stick it out till the end like the champion you are, you’ll meet the other champions, and have the premium access to them that you couldn’t get before.
7. Celebrate. Your pockets brim with business cards. You’ve done your future self proud. Do something you love to acknowledge that you’ve done something difficult and worthwhile.
Carlin Twedt is the marketing and social media coordinator at Ragan Communications. You can connect with him on Twitter at @Carl_In_Tweets.(Image via)
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