Typically the summer season brings out more event invites than you juggle all year long. From backyard BBQ’s to work events hosted at outdoor spaces, your calendar ends up action-packed. So why not take advantage of some of those events to add in a little professional networking? No matter if you’re at a family reunion or a summer work picnic – you’ll probably meet new people and get the chance to chat about both personal and professional pursuits. Still feeling a little unsure? Here’s a look at a few social settings where you can do some great networking this summer.
Where to Do Your Best Networking This Summer
Family Reunion. Chances are if this is going to end up on your calendar, it will during summer. Every family wants to host an event like this when they can get everyone together in a wide open space like a park or beach – it’s easy and fun. Even though this is a family activity, you’re probably either going to meet someone new or bump into a cousin you haven’t seen in years. And, that is a great time to catch up, talk shop and feel out connections that could make for great professional opportunities down the road.
Neighborhood BBQ. This is a classic summer event. They’re so much fun, offering the chance to get together with your neighbors who you haven’t seen much over the winter and meet neighbors who are new to the block. This is one of the best times to practice your networking skills – you never know who you might cross paths with. While you never want to inundate anyone with work talk, people inevitable end up chatting about careers and that’s a great time to let people know you’re putting the feelers out there for new opportunities.
Summer Work Outing. These can be fun or somewhat boring – it completely depends what you make of it. But, it’s also your chance to talk with the big boss or chat with folks from another department who might have some interesting projects on the table. If you’re interested in making a move – whether lateral or up the ladder – a summer work picnic is a great time to plant that seed and express your interest in making a change.
Remember – networking in any situation is a fine balance of talking shop, showcasing your well-roundedness by talking about things outside of work and asking loads of questions to those you’re networking with. Here are a few tips to keep it positive and in a good flow:
- Get out there and introduce yourself
- Be thoughtful about what you say
- Keep it positive at all times
- Ask questions about the rest of the people in the group as much as possible
- Make introductions
What do you think? Are you ready to get out there and network this summer?
