Intro from Alana:
Even as I type this introduction, Christy Rogers’ post makes me want to get up and dance my way to a networking event! Christy is the founder and lead instructor at Training Umbrella, a company that specializes in teaching Microsoft and Google Applications along with providing computer lab and event space rentals. She has been involved in the planning and training of multiple software migrations in the Kansas City area and across the United States. Christy is a Google Certified Individual and Microsoft Office Specialist. She believes that “Knowing the technology is not the same as knowing how to teach it.”
A degree in education from Kansas State University has supported her career path that included time educating students in a high school classroom, teaching for ExecuTrain, a nationwide technology training company and opening the doors of Training Umbrella in January 2011.
Christy is the current past president of ATD (Association of Talent Development) Kansas City and a member of the Leawood Chamber. She enjoys summer weekends at the lake, reading and spending time with her husband and two children.
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“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham! Guest Blog by Christy Rogers.
It can be rough walking into a room and not knowing a soul. When I arrive at a networking event, I first make a dash for the coffee. Having the cup in my hand somehow makes it easier for me to approach people and say “hello.”
There are times I would rather just stay home than go to a networking event. But then I quickly remind myself how often I meet the most amazing people when I do get up and go-go. It also helps if you ask a friend or colleague to join you. I would caution, if you do go with a friend, be careful not to use your friend as a crutch. Instead, be on purpose and introduce your friend to someone new. Make connections.
Another great reason to not go solo is it will make you accountable. It’s an appointment you are more likely to keep. Offer to carpool and pick up your colleague. The drive itself may produce an unexpected yet delightful conversation.
Just a few weeks ago, I was invited to a networking social at Union Station in Kansas City. It typically is a 20-minute drive for me. A colleague of mine and I decided to carpool. When I picked him up, I had the pleasure of meeting his family and saw him in an element that I normally don’t get to see. During the drive, we shared stories about current projects and what we hoped to accomplish in the near months.
At the event, we made new connections and enjoyed the time. I find that a little planning along with follow through often yields greater enjoyment and success.