Why you should go to happy hours and other networking events

Yesterday I attended a happy hour hosted by the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network and Greater DC Cares. I almost did not go because I had too much work to do and I was not in the mood for mingling with people I do not know. I am glad I went because it was a reminder why you should go to happy hours and other networking events:

1. You almost always meet someone interesting
I probably met 12+ people yesterday, and made 3 interesting connections. I spent some time chatting with Eva Maciejewski, a Media Relations Specialist at Research America. She used to be in the TV editing business, realized she did not like that lifestyle, and decided to make a transition into the nonprofit sector. Eva joined the Board of the YNPN in DC and that helped her make a transition into the sector. Eva also offered to write about ProInspire in the YNPN newsletter.

2. You might learn something new
I met a woman who is part of the Greater DC Cares Board Leadership Program. I had never heard of this program, but it sounds fantastic. The program consists of an 8-hour training on the roles and responsibilities of serving as a nonprofit board member. Even though I don’t remember the person I met, I learned something new that has stuck with me.

3. Push yourself out of your comfort zone
Lets be realistic – meeting a bunch of strangers is not “comfortable” for most people. I am a fairly outgoing person and I still have to encourage myself to walk up to a group of people chatting at these events. Don’t worry, usually people in that group don’t know each other either, and someone will be happy to have you join the conversation. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is a great way to develop new skills and gain confidence to tackle the bigger challenges in life.

These “networking” events have opened by eyes up to the myriad of opportunities for people to get involved with the nonprofit sector. I am making it my goal to try to attend at least one a week.