The holidays are all about connecting, both in life and at PWCC. A couple of times a year, PWCC opens up its monthly luncheon programming for a multi-stage, organized networking event. At most luncheons, attendees introduce themselves and hand out cards to everyone at their tables during the salad course and a speaker or speakers – always with an interesting message – addresses the group during dessert.
In December and again in the spring, though, the luncheon is all about members and guests connecting with each other. I enjoyed these luncheons a few years ago when I first joined PWCC, but after I’d let my membership lapse and then decided to start my own business, it was these “progressive connections” luncheons that brought me back to PWCC.
The premise is that you’re at a different table for each of the three courses, introducing yourself to and learning about 9 other ladies at each table. That’s 27 possible new connections in a little over an hour! With a few empty seats at my tables and being seated with two ladies I already know (through PWCC), I walked out with 20 cards from women new to me. One person forgot cards but took mine and sent me a LinkedIn request thinking we might be able to collaborate in the future.
Each table included ladies from a good variety of professions, all explaining what they do and how other attendees might be able to help them, either personally or professionally. Several times I heard women talk about their “day jobs” and then go on to explain their “night jobs.” Inevitably, the night job was something they are truly passionate about and hope to turn into a day job someday. How inspiring!
I witnessed several people chime in right away at the table with suggestions or tips for the person who had just introduced herself and explained some kind of assistance she could use. Whether it was how to break in as a motivational speaker, a type of software that could help with a small-business challenge or what to consider in finding commercial real estate, the resources practically flew around the table.
I left the luncheon recharged to tackle my personal and professional challenges and optimistic about my ability to build my own business in the coming year.
Julie Hanahan is a commercial freelance writer with nearly 10 years of experience in marketing communications. Learn more about her at www.juliehanahan.com or email her at julie@juliehanahan.com.