Most professionals know they should network, but many are not sure exactly what it means, what the benefits are, or how to go about it. They join a professional association, attend a meeting or two, but come away without having made any solid networking contacts. Between work, family and other obligations, it's difficult to find time for networking, anyway. But wait, there's hope!
Plan to join San Francisco IABC on Thursday, September 14, for a great Speed Networking session, which will make the task of connecting with colleagues as simple as A-B-C (or better yet, IABC!). Our guest at this special Chapter event will be Barbara Gibson, a longtime member of IABC who will be in town to attend a meeting of the International Executive Board.
In addition to her duties as founder and president of SpokesComm, a London-based media relations company, Barbara runs a great Speed Networking session. This is how she describes it: 'With Speed Networking, we provide a structured environment that takes away any awkwardness, and very rapidly gets people talking, getting to know each other, sharing ideas and experiences and resources. The set-up is a room filled with round tables to hold a handful of people, each table assigned a 'hot topic' and a facilitator with expertise on that topic.
"Participants choose a table and when a bell rings, the facilitator begins, drawing out quick self-introductions from each participant, then launching in to the topic. With the timer running on a 20-minute deadline, the discussions become intense, rushed and animated. When the bell rings, everyone moves on to a new table, new topic and new mix of participants, but not before several make plans to continue discussions or follow up during breaks, or via phone or e-mail.' Barbara Gibson is past president of the UK Chapter of IABC and an Accredited Business Communicator. Her firm, SpokesComm, works with companies worldwide to improve the effectiveness of their media spokespeople.
Be sure to drop off your business card at registration to win a Borders Gift Card!
For information and maps to the King George, visit http://www.kinggeorge.com/index1.asp.
Selection of appetizers and snacks are included with admission. Cash Bar.
