I Attended A Networking Event Alone & Here’s What Happened

Networking. . . the dreaded word that most of us hate but feel obligated to do. Why? Because today it’s not about what you know, it’s about who you know! So we all drag ourselves to these things called “networking events” because we want to make beneficial life long relationships. . . right?
 
I checked my email one day to see that I had a message from a fashion marketing company. Apparently, they found me on Instagram and thought I’d be interested in attending their annual Blogger and the Brand event. During this event, they would have bloggers meet various brands and host a panel discussion with known bloggers in the industry. I thought the idea was brilliant and I was so ready to attend. . . with my plus one.
 
Although I’m not a shy person, attending an event where I know no one isn’t my idea of fun. However, I kept getting a voice in my head that said I needed to do this one alone. I knew that if I brought someone with me, chances were high that I’d stay in my “bubble.” Let’s be honest, when we bring a plus one we tend to stay with our plus one. It’s harder to step out and meet people when you don’t necessarily have to. Who cares that I didn’t mingle with everyone in the room. . . I have my plus one with me! I knew this was the time where I had to step out of my comfort zone and attend it alone!
 
Even after my decision it had been weeks before I reserved my ticket for the event. Guess I was still internally going back and forth with myself on that qty 1. Time was running out and now it was too late to invite someone else. . . so I got it. The day of the event I was pretty calm. The only thing that made me nervous, was getting out of my uber and trying to find the venue, while balancing in 6 inch wedges on New York’s sidewalks. In case any of you are wondering, I made it safely and injury free! Lol.
 

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I walked into the building on 5th ave and hit the button for the penthouse level. As the elevator went higher and higher I thought to myself, “I could’ve put my shoes on in here.” Seriously, I was on that elevator for what felt like 3 minutes! Anyway, I got off the elevator and went to check in. There were two ladies who were checking off names and verifying email addresses. As soon as she told me to enter inside and enjoy the event, I legit froze up! There were tons of people there and everyone looked like they had plus ones – plus fours. I stood there like a deer in headlights with probably “scared” written allover my face. So I did what anyone would do. . . I raced towards the bar!
 
Water, please! See, you all thought I was going to take advantage of the free sponsored Bartenura wine that they were serving! Nope. I ordered a water like a G while I leaned on the bar and looked for another loner like myself. By the way, finding someone else who came alone was a complete FAIL! Luckily for me, I arrived at a great time because they were moving people into the next room for the panel discussion. Great, now I can sit down and not have to talk to anyone because that’s why I’m here! 🙂 (sarcasm at its finest)
 
The panel discussion was awesome and reassured a lot of things I researched in the past. The only issue I had was, it ended so quickly! Now this might’ve just been me because I knew once the discussion over, it was time to network again. Finally, I had to REALLY step out into the world of unfamiliarity. My first thought was to meet the lovely woman that invited me and all three of the panelists. I made my way to her (without speaking to anyone else, SMH) and stood on what looked like a jumbled up line. There were other ladies all around me and not once did I speak! At this point I’m like, “ASHLEY. . . WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!!! YOU AREN’T EVEN SHY!!!” I don’t know, I just couldn’t bring myself to talk!
 

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Then I heard a voice say, “Is this a line? Are you waiting in line?” As I turned around while responding yes, I couldn’t help but to notice that this girl was gorgeous! Her hair, make up and outfit were stunning so I HAD to compliment her! Guess what happened after that? I connected with four lovely women who were so kind, friendly and absolutely amazing! We all exchanged our socials (NOT business cards) to stay in touch! It’s crazy how one compliment can lead to a connection and that one connection can lead you to many more! At that moment, I realized that I had nothing to be scared or nervous about.
 
Yes, attending networking events alone can STILL be scary and nerve wracking! However, all things take time, practice and patience to master. Think about it, the other people in the room are there for the same reason you are. . . to connect! So although I consider my personal efforts to reach out and make connections a fail, I don’t consider my experience a failure. It was definitely a practice session and I intend to go to more events solo! Maybe next time, I can be the girl who speaks first! Have you attended a networking event solo? Or do you refuse to attend events alone? Whatever your experience has been I’d love to hear about it! Please make sure to leave me a comment and don’t forget to subscribe!
 

Until Next Time ASSASSINS. . . Stay Disciplined!

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