What NOT to Do at a PCYP Networking Event
Never been to a PCYP networking event before and want to ace your first time? Follow this list of 10 things NOT to do and you’ll be smooth sailing.
1. Feel like you’re a lone wolf
At least 30% of attendees every month are BRAND NEW! Plus, you should never feel uncomfortable because everyone is there to meet new people so introducing yourself is 100% expected. A few good questions to ask when beginning a conversation at a PCYP event is…
“How long have you been a part of the group?”
“How long have you lived in Wilmington?”
“Have you ever been to this place?”
“What kind of work do you do?”
“What made you start coming to PCYP events?”
If starting a conversation with someone new is a challenge for you, reach out to an Ambassador with a silver name tag and let them know you’re new and they will introduce you to a few others at the event.
2. Forget your business cards
You’ll want these on hand to leave with anyone you meet that you make a connection with! Don’t have business cards? That’s OK, just send them a request to connect on LinkedIn.
3. Just run around blindly handing out business cards
The goal is not to give away/collect as many business cards as possible – it’s to make true connections with people who are like-minded individuals who you have the potential to learn from. On the same token, you don’t want to only focus on what other people can do for you – be sure to keep in mind how you can bring value to others!
4. Fail to introduce yourself to PCYP Ambassadors and Members
The PCYP Ambassadors are there to welcome you, as well as help introduce you to other members of the PCYP community! Look for their silver name tags and be sure to say hello. Let them know what you do and why you’re here – especially if there are specific connections you’re looking to make.
5. Don’t enter the raffle
Why miss out on the chance to win free stuff? We offer killer prizes at every event, so drop your card off in the raffle bucket when you check-in (and if you’re a member, don’t forget the special “Members Only Raffle” bucket, too!)
6. Talk during the announcements
At around 6:30 pm at each monthly networking event, we set aside a few minutes to thank our host and sponsor, introduce our featured non-profit and pull our raffle winners. Our events range from 120 – 200 attendees, so it’s important that the side chatter is kept to a minimum during this time!
7. Ignore the sponsor and non-profit tables
You’re likely to see tables or set-ups from the event’s featured host, sponsor and non-profit. Take a moment to stop by, speak with the representatives and learn more about what they have to offer.
8. Miss the boat on discovering what the host has to offer at their establishment
Our networking events are held at a variety of establishments all over the Greater Wilmington area. If you’ve never visited this particular business before, it’s the perfect time to check it out and learn more about what makes it a great place to return to in the future.
9. Only come to one event
This is true of all networking events – you get out what you put in, and 90% of it is just showing up! The more regularly you attend these events, the more people you will connect with and the stronger your bond with the community will become.
10. Think you’re “too old” to be at a PCYP event
We welcome all ages and professions! Our members range from 18-80 and as long as you’re “young at heart” and fun to be around, we will welcome you with open arms! The median age group is about 33 with most of our members age 25-45.
- For a full list of our upcoming and past events, visit our Events page.
- Check out our other blog post on What to Expect at Your First PCYP Event
- Not an official member? Join now!
