Networking events are key to society. In a world where some people still believe it’s more about who you know rather than what you know, putting yourself out there is more vital than ever.
An important thing to decide beforehand is why do you want to attend the event. Is there a key speaker that you know you’ll learn some gems of wisdom? Lacking motivation/inspiration? There are a variety of reasons why, but do not just attend an event because it’s free or your friends are dragging you along. Remember networking is a way to connect with new people. They don’t have to necessarily be within the same industry but building a catalogue of connections where you have similar interests are important. You need to be open-minded, ready to ask questions, share and learn. You should enjoy yourself at networking events but you should also be prepared to gain something substantial from the event too.
I first came across Dream Nation a few years ago, the concept to me was amazing. It was like the virtual friend I needed to provide motivation and inspiration in time of doubt. Despite all their events, I was still lacking to implement anything into practice. Like most networking events I’d leave psyched up and excited, tweeting my excitement of the event, and becoming more proactive but for a limited time only.
This year included an incredible line up of speakers and panellist for Q&A: David McQueen, Anne Boden, Amy Chow, Kirsty MacDonald, Jordan Kensington, William Adoasi, Christine Ohuruogu. Each with a unique stand on how they got to where they are today, what drives them and classic words of inspiration without pretending it’s all simple whatever your goal is.
Usually, after networking events, days and weeks may past and somehow I’ve fallen back into the same dreadful cycle. Dream Nation Conference provided much more food for thought than I thought was possible, but also my mindset had changed. I’m finally able to visually picture my goal while speaking about it to strangers, friends and even families which is something I struggled with before. I didn’t milk networking events for all their worth and although I’ve still not mastered that I’m expressing my thoughts more healthily. Networking events will not change you unless you want to change. If you don’t go out of your comfort zone to network then how will you benefit from the event? The speakers have done their part, yours is more than just to attend. So I plucked up the coverage and listened, which is an important skill. That’s the other thing about networking events, sometimes you’ll feel like the smallest fish in the tank but just remember why are you there.
I thought networking events worked best for the extroverts of the world. Those who know their confidence no matter what social setting their in, ready to strike up a conversation and get the party going. Without sitting on the fence I’d describe myself as an ambivert. The confident, out-going, social butterfly side of me is there but not for show 24/7. I’m someone who is consumed in my thoughts and feelings at times but that doesn’t mean I’m shy, but something about Dream Nation’s Conference allowed me to step slightly outside of my comfort zone. I was in a room of people who I felt I could learn from, be inspired by and hopefully offer my own advice and support. It wasn’t a networking event where we were placed in a pecking order. I didn’t feel like I was being overshadowed or that my skills were not inadequate enough which sadly is a feeling I’ve felt in way too many networking events than I care to admit.
I’m proud that I went through with attending the event, despite having doubts but I made connections and small progress with my own personal developments. If you haven’t heard about Dream Nation, do one thing today and check them out and if you have heard of them think about how you’re progressing to become the best version of you to achieve your dreams.