Summertime Networking

As the temperatures heat up this season, your networking should sizzle. Individuals tend to put networking in the back seat during the Summer and pick it up as the Fall approaches. Not such a good or effective idea. Networking works best when it is consistent and developing. People can focus their objectives and goals toward Summer activities to get the most out of their agenda. It is also a good idea to include friends, family and co-workers on your networking mission.

Listed below are helpful tips for maximizing your social and business efforts.

The Pool Party
Attend pool parties within your neighborhood or with family and friends. These are the ideal venues for getting to know your community. At these parties, set a social and casual tone for your networking. Continue to learn about individuals on a personal level and find ways to connect for future opportunities. Inquire about their social and professional affiliations. It is always important to ask engaging and interesting questions. Also follow up in a timely manner and ask for relevant introductions, when necessary. If you are attending events with family members, find ways of engaging them in your networking endeavors. It is good to take advantage of those close and long term relationships.

Summer Concerts
Get out and meet people who share similar entertainment interests. Concerts are excellent venues for meeting a variety of people. Use the time spent standing on lines for entrances, snacks and souvenirs to start conversations. In between sessions and breaks, get to know the people who are surrounding you. This can also be an excellent way to expand your network nationally or internationally. People tend to travel from different places to attend concerts and entertainment shows.

The Ball Park
Set up a date at the ball park and invite friends and colleagues to attend. Or get invited to sports games in your city or town. It is always fun and high energy to attend events as a collective group. It reduces the stress of networking in closed or formal environments. Individuals are more likely to invite friends and additional colleagues to expand the circle. This is an opportunity to encounter people whom you may not necessarily have the opportunity to associate with or meet.

It is clear that the Summertime is still a good time to network. The value of being consistent and developing can only enhance your efforts. It can also provide the fuel for a successful networking season in the Fall and Winter months.