How to Make Networking Count in We&Co

We&Co: Networking is one of the most important aspects of building a successful career in the hospitality industry. It’s all about who you know and who knows you. That’s why We&Co is the perfect place for hospitality professionals to meet and make connections that can help them advance in their careers.

But attending We&Co events is just the first step. To make networking count, you need to be strategic about how you approach these events. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your We&Co networking opportunities:

1. Set Goals

Before you attend any We&Co event, set some specific networking goals. For example, you might want to meet five new people in your industry or make connections with three potential employers. Whatever your goals, write them down and make a plan to achieve them.

2. Be Prepared

The more prepared you are for a We&Co event, the more successful you’ll be at networking. Make sure you bring plenty of business cards, have a clear understanding of your own skills and experience, and be ready to share your elevator pitch.

3. Be Authentic

Authenticity is key when it comes to networking. Don’t try to be someone you’re not, and don’t pretend to know more than you do. Instead, be yourself and focus on building real connections with the people you meet.

4. Be Engaging

Engagement is essential to successful networking. When you meet someone new, take the time to listen to what they have to say and ask questions about their experience in the industry. Show interest in their story, and you’ll find that they’ll be more likely to show interest in yours.

5. Follow Up

Following up after a We&Co event is critical to building lasting connections. Make sure you take the time to send a follow-up email or LinkedIn message to the people you met, thanking them for their time and expressing your interest in staying in touch.

Attending More We&Co Events (Or Join a Huddle!)

If you’re serious about making networking count in We&Co, then attending more events is key. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your event attendance:

1. Check the We&Co Event Calendar

The We&Co event calendar is your go-to resource for finding out about upcoming events. Make sure you check it regularly and mark the events that interest you in your calendar.

2. Attend Different Types of Events

We&Co offers a variety of events, from networking happy hours to industry panels and workshops. Attending different types of events can help you meet a variety of people and build connections with professionals in different areas of the industry.

3. Bring a Friend

Bringing a friend to a networking event can help you feel more comfortable and confident. Plus, it’s always good to have someone to chat with while you’re mingling.

4. Sponsor Networking Events

Sponsoring We&Co events are a great way to meet new people and get involved in the We&Co community. Plus, it shows that you’re committed to the industry and willing to put in the extra effort to make connections. Lastly, you are put in the spotlight AT these events. You get social shoutouts, a shameless plug at the event, and maybe even a video interview!

5. Follow We&Co on Social Media

Following We&Co on social media is a great way to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and connect with other hospitality professionals. Make sure you follow We&Co on all of their social media channels and engage with their content.

In conclusion, networking is a crucial element in building a successful career in the hospitality industry, and attending events is a fantastic way to meet new people and build connections. However, it’s not enough to simply attend these events. To make networking count, you need to be strategic and focused on your goals.

By setting clear networking goals, being prepared and authentic, engaging with others, and following up after events, you can maximize your networking efforts in We&Co. Additionally, attending a variety of We&Co events, bringing a friend, volunteering, and following We&Co on social media can help you stay connected and engaged in the community.

So, the next time you attend a networking event, remember to be strategic, authentic, and engaged. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to building lasting connections and advancing your career!