Networking Events in New York City: For upon |The idea of networking used to produce a physical reaction in me, similar to riding a roller coaster: sweaty palms, nervous chatter, and a slightly queasy stomach.

Unless you’re a regular performer, no one relishes the idea of planting yourself in a room full of strangers and attempting to be charming—especially when your livelihood is involved!

Despite the universal awkwardness that usually comes with these events, every city offers unique opportunities for you to network. From happy hours to bowling matches to workshops, it seems like more options are popping up every day. Here are just a few we think you’ll like. Networking Events in New York City.

If you’re a morning person, this is a great way to start your day. What better scenario to schmooze than over egg-white omelets? Breakfast meetings allow all of the early risers to get ahead. You’re the first pitch of the day, so you get in front of potential employers or clients before they’re inundated with requests and resumes later that day. Unlike happy hours, you also get to interact with influencers before a potentially stressful workday hits (and before the alcohol starts flowing). Networking Events in New York City.

2. Industry-Specific Speaking Engagements

Whether you’re in marketing, retail, accounting, or another field, there are always people around to learn from. Take advantage of networking events in your area that have a speaker or speakers on a topic directly related to your position or department. You will learn from the experts themselves and ask questions you might not be able to in a webinar or online Q&A. You’ll also be surrounded by attendees in your field—take advantage of picking their brains! Bonus tip: If you have the confidence, offer to speak at one of these events yourself! Networking Events in New York City.

3. Roundtable Events

Similar to speaking engagements, roundtables are beneficial to those looking to advance their knowledge by communicating with their peers. Roundtables allow for open forums and discussions that, more often than not, lead to creative ideas and new directions. If you’re stuck on a project, story, or proposal, these are great events to get out of your rut and make some new connections in the meantime. Networking Events in New York City.

4. Happy Hour Networking Meetups

If you get the “roller coaster” anxiety about events that I do, happy hour is a tried-and-true tradition in the networking world. It allows for more of a relaxed atmosphere—making small talk and approaching strangers is simpler in a casual environment.

Bonus Tip: Avoid happy hours if you are actively looking for a job—given their usually laid-back nature, it might encourage you to make the wrong impression on a potential boss!

5. LinkedIn Groups

The digital age of networking is a blessing to the introvert in all of us. There are a ton of networking groups and forums on LinkedIn and other networks that allow communication, problem-solving and legitimate relationship-building (both business and personal) on a daily basis. If you’re nervous about jumping into the event pool, this is a great way to dip your toes in. Networking Events in New York City.

Even this list will leave you with a mind-spinning number of networking event options. So how do you decide which of them are worth your time?

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING A PROFESSIONAL NETWORKING EVENT

1. Choose an Event That Benefits Your Career Objectives

Are you looking for a job? New clients? Start-up capital? Either way, different events (especially the worthwhile ones!) are tailored to specific goals. Choose one that aligns with yours!

2. Find Out Where the Right People Will Be—And Go There

If you’re looking for a financial backer, you might want to avoid networking events that are lacking decision-makers. If you’re looking for a job, try to find events attended by hiring managers or HR representatives. Research your favorite companies or industries, and see if there are any opportunities soon that are sponsored or managed by your dream company, or that feature your “dream role” people as keynote speakers or panelists. Networking Events in New York City.

3. Ask Yourself What You Need to Learn

Are you looking to attend a meetup or event in your field to escalate your growth? Check out the hosts, the speakers, and the topics being covered. If it’s something you’re already an expert on, look for a more advanced session. These are skill-specific opportunities for you to advance your career through developing and honing in on your strengths—or hey, your weaknesses! Networking Events in New York City.

4. Find a Conference or Event That Fits Your Personality and Career Goals

Once your objective is clear, choose an event that will give you a chance to shine. If you’re uncomfortable in big groups, look for events in more intimate settings. The last “rule” is important in our networking-cluttered world. Because the options are vast, you can—and should—attend events that will suit your needs and your A-game! If you hate ice breakers and small talk—maybe a roundtable isn’t for you. Maybe you prefer to listen to panelists, and then break into small groups to workshop specific skills. Maybe you prefer happy hours because chit chat is your favorite thing to do. Networking Events in New York City.

HOW TO FIND NETWORKING EVENTS IN YOUR AREA

Okay so we’ve covered what events you should try to attend, and how to decide which ones you want to make time for—but how do you even know where to find these networking events to choose from? A quick google search of, “networking events [insert city here]” is a great way to start—but it can also be overwhelming with the number of results you’ll likely get. Networking Events in New York City.

1. Your City Event Calendar

Your city likely has some sort of online event calendar—even if your “city” is more like a “farm” and your networking opportunities are limited to the weekly bingo competitions at one of the local churches. It’s still something, right? Your city calendar is a great starting point because the list of events is already curated based on an important factor: distance. Networking Events in New York City.

2. Eventbrite

It’s an event calendar that’s super collaborative. Other people post events, and you get to search through them (you can even RSVP through the site.) Navigate to different events by date, category, event type, or price. You’ll find what you’re looking for in no time.

Pro tip: There are many websites like Eventbrite that showcase events in your area. Try Meetup and Facebook if you want more options. Networking Events in New York City.

3. Utilize Your Existing Network

That’s right—ask around at work! Maybe your coworkers are in industry-specific professional networks or are secretly genius copywriters who teach multiple creative writing classes each week. Your boss might know of some local groups or meetings that you can attend. Networking Events in New York City.

Reach out to connections in your existing network, and see what events they’ve found helpful or exciting. You can also ask friends (especially if they’re in an industry you’re interested in) if they have any upcoming events on their radar. Even if you don’t get any recommendations right away, you’re letting everyone know you’re interested—and you’ll be the first person they call when they hear of something. Networking Events in New York City.

The article was originally published here.

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