WHERE TO WEAVE YOUR WEB

Now that you've got a better grasp on HOW to network, it's time to focus your attention on WHERE.

It's no surprise that many people question the effectiveness of networking in the nightlife scene, granted, there is a time and place(s) for nightlife networking...

GO TO...

Lounges

An atmosphere that mimics the excitement of dance clubs, but provides an environment that caters to those of us who love to chat.

You'll meet:

• Grown-up club goers
• Stylish people with a mix of expertise

Get the convo rolling by... breaking out a cool bar trick. (stick to one)


Check out: Prive
This prime Yorkville location draws in Toronto's elite. GREAT music and a plethora of different people ensures a memorable night and several networking opportunities.

Martini Bars

A perfect location to chat over drinks, martini bars generally offer an intimate atmosphere that encourages interaction.

You'll meet:

• After work professionals
• Eclectic people with cool ideas

Get the convo rolling by... striking up a conversation about one of the many delicious martinis on the menu.

Check out: Eat My Martini
A hip college street bar that offers a HUGE menu of amazing martinis at excellent prices.

Fundraisers

Give back while making connections.
You'll meet:

• Down to earth people who care
• Attractive people, aged 25-40

Get the convo rolling by...  talking about the cause, or the theme of the event.

Check out: Scribble Me Silly events
This charity is run by a group of awesome 20-somethings who have built a very interesting network of followers. They throw several fundraisers a year, all of which are an absolute blast.. and full of fun attractive (well connected) people. :) Follow Sribble Me Silly on facebook and look out for upcoming events. (like the ever popular "North Jam Rock Reggae Series"!)


Where do YOU go to meet people??? 

APPROACH COACH!

So you're at the venue... Now what?


You've been briefed on some common mistakes- that's all well and good, but how do you put them to practical application?


Arguably, the most difficult part of networking is the initial contact... Pay attention as I coach you through the approach.


WHO IS WORTHY OF YOUR WORDS?...


The simple answer is EVERYONE. 


While you may be thinking, "how on earth is Joe Blow from Idaho going to help me in my career?" Consider the fact that you don't know who Joe Blow knows. 
When deciding who you should be conversing with, keep in mind that everyone has a network; Although Mr.Blow may not be the person you're looking to secure an "in" with, perhaps he has someone in his network that would be helpful to you. 
Keep your options open and your attention on everyone.




COMPLIMENTS: 
EVERYONE'S FAVOURITE ICEBREAKER!...


If the idea of walking up to a complete stranger with your arm extended, ready to introduce yourself with a firm handshake and a keen attitude, terrifies you- good! This is NOT how to effectively network. 
Instead, strike up conversations by offering them something of interest... and what's more interesting to people than themselves? A compliment is a great way to break the ice, without making the person feel pressured into a conversation. But, make sure your compliment is sincere, you don't want to come off as fake. No one has any interest in conversing with a phony.




STATE YOUR NAME!


Regardless of how intelligent, charming and interesting you are - without a name, you're nothing more than a fleeting conversation. Avoid being one of the many interactions that get lost in the land of amusing nightclub chats. Take any and every opportunity to introduce yourself, and get their name too! Often, people are so focused on what they're saying that they forget the name of the person who introduced themselves mere moments ago. If you don't remember a persons name, they are essentially non-existent in your network. Get it, repeat it - remember it!

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD...

A killer pair of heels always helps ;)

Okay, so you've got this idea that networking can be fun, right? - RIGHT.

You think that because you're already frequenting nightclubs, it’s probably going to be quite easy to meet people, right? - RIGHT.

So if all this is so gosh darn easy, why haven't you landed your dream job yet simply from gallivanting around town with friends?

Allow me to outline some common mistakes made by newbie’s to the nightlife networking scene:

1) TOO MANY DRINKS! ... 

While you might be the most FUN at an event, this does not translate into respectability. Even though everyone may want to talk to you, no one wants to hire the girl who was swinging from the chandelier and slurring her words.

SOLUTION: Pace yourself!

Keep in mind the reason you’re there - to make connections, NOT to participate in a race to the bottom of the bottle.

2) LOW NECKLINES, SHORT HEMS! ...

While I'm sure you look smokin' hot in your favourite little outfit, be wary of the message you're portraying to potential connections.

SOLUTION: Dress to impress!

I know, I know - so cliché. But I cannot stress this fact enough! Dress for the audience that you’re trying to attract… which means, if you’re not looking to secure a feature position as an exotic dancer, you might want to reconsider that skin-tight leopard mini-dress and opt for something a little less revealing.

3) TOO MUCH ‘TUDE! …

While a little attitude may attract and intrigue many club-goers, sassiness often detracts from one’s perceived intellect. Avoid being deemed a “bitch” or a “bimbo”.    

SOLUTION: Treat people the way you want to be treated!

If you spent your childhood rolling your eyes at your parents as they tried to drill this into your pre-pubescent brain, you may want to offer them an apology. When it comes to conversations, keep the sass factor to a minimum, remember that these people are not your BFF, and in a nightlife setting, you really never know just who you might be talking to.


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