September marks the beginning of the business networking season in Seattle. New programs and events on any number of topics crowd the local business calendar. If you are in job search mode attending selective events is one of your best resources for leads and making new friends.
Event etiquette demands you come prepared with business cards and your elevator pitch. When you are asked where you work or what you do, a quick description of what you do is in order. This is no time to ask for leads or help, so make sure you end by asking what the listener does. You can follow up in a day or two. For now, discuss the event or other timely topic.
Nothing makes an attendee beat feet faster than someone latching on to them for leads and help. Be a peer, a fellow attendee and swap business cards. When you make contact later they will be more disposed to hearing you out. Do it at the event and they will run away and dismiss you.
Two groups with strong membership and frequent meetings include:
TIE: Objectives TiE-Seattle is a not-for-profit Washington organization with a mission to foster and support entrepreneurship. This organization has three objectives: To network and to facilitate networking among members. To foster entrepreneurship and to nurture entrepreneurs. To help membership integrate with the mainstream community. Membership is required for attendance to most events.
MIT Enterprise Forum of the Northwest: MIT Enterprise Forum of the Northwest MIT Enterprise Forum, Inc. is widely recognized as a unique, innovative worldwide organization supporting high tech entrepreneurial growth. As one of 24 worldwide chapters affiliated with the Alumni Association of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Northwest Enterprise Forum promotes the establishment and growth of innovative technology companies through creative programs that educate and entertain entrepreneurs. Events are informative and inspiring and provide a high quality arena in which industry executives can learn and expand their network.
Upcoming: Social Media, Real Business Strategies for Success September 16, 2009 - 5:00-8:30pm
More resources and events can be found on my blog. Be sure to subscribe for advice and information about job search for executives and technology leaders.
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