Networking Buddy, Anyone?

The Eventbrite link is not enough.

A Google search is not enough.

A social media post is not enough.

It takes courage—and even more high-level courage if you're new to Kingston- to automatically step out of your comfort zone, magically initiate a search of networking happenings in the City, and confidently and competently attend networking events as an international student... on... your... own. But not me.

What is really needed? A baby-step-courage. And that's where a networking buddy comes in.

As an international student, I know the intimidation a student feels when thinking about "networking" with other people and having no clue what a networking event looks like.

A student I invited expressed his intimidation by telling me he felt it was too soon to attend and needed more months to stay in Kingston to feel confident participating.

And that's worrying.

Most people know the myriad benefits a person would gain... and could gain in networking, connecting, and forming relationships with others.

For example, meeting Sonia Verjovsky , a Career Development Advisor at KEYS Employment & Newcomer Services , was one of our highlights as international students last month. She helps "international graduates transition into career-level opportunities in the Kingston community."

KEYS and?Kingston Economic Development Corporation organized this "monthly Welcome to Kingston nights" for newcomers in Kingston City every last Thursday of each month.

The ULTIMATE GOAL:

But for most students with no or less experience, having a networking buddy can make all the difference. And even having a dedicated Whatsapp group (or any medium) can make more difference for good reasons.

1. Accountability: It makes each of us set a networking goal, and that's exciting.
2. Support: A buddy's reassuring presence is a great help to lessen the stress and intimidation.
3. New Connections: When you network with your buddy, you can introduce each other to new contacts and expand your networks even further. It's always easier to approach someone new when you have a friend.
4. Confidence: Having a networking buddy can boost your confidence when attending networking events. You'll have someone to talk to, and you can practice your pitch with each other before approaching new contacts.

A friend asked me today:

"What does the event look like, and what will we be doing during the event?"

So, I sent her a photo and a video I took from the event?at the Red House in March 2023.

She was sold.

What's Next:

?? Don't miss out on this valuable networking opportunity happening this week.

Event: Kingston Young Professionals Networking Event

Date: April 12; Wednesday

Time: 5-7 pm

Location: The Grizzly Grill, 395 Princess St.

Register here:

https://lnkd.in/g2XnjJm6

If you want us to be your networking buddies, DM me I can include you in our Whatsapp group.

I drop networking events announcements, reminders, and check-ins so we go together for more success, adventures, and fun!

Here are some networking buddies highlighted in this post. Head into their Linkedin account to get to know them:

Paul Andrew Martirez, CAT

Samuel Ayalingo

Micah Imomotebegha

Mariana Rosa de Carvalho

Harita Bharatkumar Patel

Karan Pal

Until then!

Gail