One of the most appealing aspects of live ANFP meetings are the networking events. Networking events and opportunities are one of the highest rated benefits of membership. Members continually seek out these events to broaden their network, deepen their understanding of the challenges we face in the industry, and learn how to work with one another to develop solutions. With upcoming spring meetings, consider adding these events/activities to your agenda with a few suggested ideas below to provide one of ANFP’s greatest benefits.
“Ask Me About” – When attendees register/check-in for your next chapter meeting, have them write on a name badge a topic other attendees can ‘ask them about’ (does not have to be work related – Example: “Ask Me About: my pet”). Attendees can include any topics they would like to discuss; favorite vacation destination, years in the industry, last book they read, etc. This is an icebreaker that everyone can participate in and encourages networking.
Lighting Round Roundtables – Like speed dating, this activity encourages members to learn about different topics through quick but impactful roundtable discussions. A speaker or chapter leader will lead the discussion on an industry hot topic, and attendees will rotate to each table every 10 – 15 minutes depending on the number of tables, (recommended 4-5) to learn about an industry hot topic. Encourage attendees to sit with those they do not know to help them expand their network.
Year Round Networking – You can extend your in person networking sessions into virtual events throughout the year. Using the same hot topics from the Lighting Round roundtables, host virtual sessions that allow speakers and attendees to dive deeper into the topic and discuss it at length. Additionally, members that were not able to attend the live event now have an opportunity to network.
Opposites Attract with Guided Networking – Propose a few questions to get the conversation started among your attendees and encourage them to seek out those with opposite answers. For example, do you prefer the beach or the mountains and why? Or do you prefer comedy or drama movies and what is your favorite movie? Or salty or sweet and what is your favorite food? This is a great icebreaker to get conversations started.