How can you effectively network at Agile Methodologies meetups?

1 Prepare before the event

Before you attend an agile meetup, do some research on the topic, the speakers, and the attendees. You can check the event website, social media, or online forums to get an idea of what to expect and who to look for. This will help you prepare some questions, comments, or stories to share during the event. You can also set some goals for yourself, such as how many people you want to talk to, what kind of information you want to get, or what kind of impression you want to make. Having a clear purpose and a plan will make you more confident and focused.

3 Listen actively and engage

One of the most important skills for networking is listening. Listening shows that you respect and value the other person, and that you are willing to learn from them. When you listen, pay attention to the speaker's tone, body language, and emotions, as well as their words. You can also use verbal and non-verbal cues to show that you are listening, such as nodding, smiling, or saying "uh-huh" or "I see". To engage the speaker, you can also ask follow-up questions, share your own experiences or opinions, or offer feedback or compliments.

4 Exchange contact information and follow up

After you have a meaningful conversation with someone, don't forget to exchange contact information. You can ask for their email, phone number, LinkedIn profile, or any other preferred method of communication. You can also suggest a specific reason or occasion to stay in touch, such as sending them a resource, inviting them to another event, or setting up a meeting. Make sure to follow up within a few days after the event, and remind them of who you are and what you talked about. You can also express your appreciation, gratitude, or interest in continuing the relationship.

5 Be yourself and have fun

Networking is not only about making connections, but also about enjoying yourself and having fun. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to network perfectly or impress everyone. Instead, be yourself and be authentic. Show your personality, your passion, and your humor. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, laugh at yourself, or admit that you don't know something. Networking is a learning process, and you can always improve your skills with practice and feedback. The more you network, the more comfortable and natural you will become.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?