November 12, 2009

I have been going to more networking meetings lately and I have noticed some vast differences in the types of people that you run into in each. Not to mention the variances in manners of attendees… There are large networking meetings in which people come and go for several hours and there is no schedule or system for the meeting. This can work well for people that just want to slip in and out of a meeting. But if you are going to a networking meeting, how is that really supposed to help you? The whole point of going is so that people notice you and remember your name so that they can call you later for services, is it not? Then, there are smaller meetings in which a select group of people are invited to attend and a loose schedule is made so that people have time to network freely and then time is given to each person to specifically for introduction purposes. I find these more useful for the type of networking that I, as an artist, need. Why should I spend time talking to people in suits and ties if I know that they are not interested, in the least, in abstract or figure paintings? I feel like my time is more appreciated and productive at the smaller meetings which are also more personal. This helps people meet “people” instead of companies. Do not get me wrong, if you are trying to meet companies, you definitely need to go to the larger meetings. However, for smaller entities and more free-thinking business people, the smaller networking meetings are far more beneficial. I have also found that electronic social networking is rather beneficial since it helps get your name spread rather quickly. But, always keep in mind that everyone is able to see what you are posting on the internet! Many people forget this little tid-bit and post information that only hinders their possibilities. All of this being said, I greatly enjoy networking and am totally excited to get back into it! Call, text, tweet or e-mail me if you have an event that you would like to see me at or if you would like to team up to host one!