Come to the Business After Hours for great food and networking. We’re looking forward to seeing you all there!
The last Thursday of the month, excluding December, Business After Hours are held at member locations in the local community. Members meet to network and connect with one another, get updated on CoLGBTQCC affairs and calendar, obtain information about the hosts and share food and drinks. Business After Hours events are no cost to members and their guests.
Bring a guest from your network and Join us at our Business After Hours and connect with the LGBTQ business community.
Business After Hours are held on the last Thursday of the month, excluding December.
This event is free of charge to members and their guests.
Networking tips:
• Leave your introverted side at home. Any activity or event can serve as a networking opportunity, so if you are naturally shy, having success in networking can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are some strategies for overcoming introversion and making connections. Consider brainstorming icebreakers before a networking event, so you do not have to come up with ideas on the spot. And of course, always feel free to take a breather if you get overwhelmed.
• Bring your networking wingperson. Sometimes starting conversations with strangers is easier if you have a familiar face by your side. If you have a friend or coworker who is also looking to expand their network, consider attending professional events together.
• Set a goal and an intention. Whether your goal is to generate referrals or simply build your virtual rolodex for the future, you should take time to generate an elevator pitch that conveys what you do, for whom you do it, and why customers should choose you!
• Find mutual points of connection when meeting members and set a follow up. Making connections is only half the battle; you also have to take steps to keep the relationship going. You could forward a relevant article, invite them to a seminar or conference, or even just send a friendly note during the holidays.
• Avoid being negative When searching for conversation starters, avoid speaking negatively about former companies or coworkers. After all, you don’t want potential contacts thinking you’d say bad things about them given the opportunity.
