Tis The Season
Every time I see all the Halloween candy in the stores, I am reminded that 1) I want to stuff as much as possible of that into my mouth, and 2) the end of year holiday season is an excellent chance to network. So yes, right now, you absolutely should make sure you’re on all possible email lists for everything from your undergrad school, to grad school, to sorority/fraternity, sports, and honor societies, because very soon all of those groups are going to be holding parties that you don’t want to miss. So get on the email lists of your schools and alumni groups, become a fan of the Facebook pages of these groups and start schmoozing!
Some of you, I know, are torn between deciding if you want to vomit now, or vomit later, or both. Vomit all you want, but these networks are your lifelines to a better job, or a different career, or maybe even a date; networking is how you become aware of what’s available in the world. Even if you love your job, great…you can still go to a few of these alumni events, because you never know whom you’re going to meet, and what opportunities are out there. You never what kind of conversations you’ll have. Even if you loathed everyone at your college/grad school, you might be surprised by how time, and maturity, changes people. Not to mention, as a general rule of thumb, why not go through life allowing yourself to have some fun? Christ, if nothing else, a lot of these parties will have an open bar.
I’m just saying: if you go to a few of these alumni events, in a nice suit, with some business cards and a big smile…you have no idea what could happen. This is your emotional network, based on shared experiences and common culture; emotional connections are why people help each other out! Not to mention, these are the people with the likely contacts to be able to help you. Also, if you’re looking for a serious relationship, as opposed to another Walk of Shame, your fellow alumni are a much better bet for dating purposes.
On the other hand, if you, like my cats, sink your claws in and refuse to be moved, I think you know exactly what kinds of fantastic opportunities will come to you, as you sit, drinking cheap wine on the sofa and watching TV: oh boy.
Want some help identifying your networks, and then figuring out what to do with them? Good idea! Email me at carlotazee@gmail.com, and become a fan of my Facebook page, “Carlotaworldwide Creativity Yenta,” for a free consultation!
Besos,
C.