For Gen-Y, networking has a very stuffy and formal connotation. When we hear about networking, we think about schmoozing over drinks at a boring industry convention. It just doesn’t sound like a whole lot of fun. That is not to say that we are not willing to participate in networking; we just look at it as a cost of doing business instead of a good opportunity to meet new people.
But who says networking can’t be an enjoyable experience? There is an interesting article about a group of 20-somethings in Richmond, Virginia who set up networking events in a Wafflehouse Restaurant. The concept: get together and expand your network in a casual atmosphere (with lots of artery-clogging food!).
While traditional business networking will always remain, I think that in the coming years Gen-Y will do an increasing amount of networking in casual situations. Gen-Y feels much better about networking when we feel that we are making genuine friends instead of just making connections that you will be able to use to your advantage in the future. Networking in casual situations will allow us to make important connections without getting the feeling that we are making “fake” friendships.
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