Hello Jameelah,
I may be only a fresh graduate of civil engineering, but I always seek my way to networking.
For before the event, I make sure I have a clear idea of the background of the speakers and what they are really into and if something mutual between us is there.
I don't have a business card yet but I have seen that a lot of people make sure to have their cards on in both volunteering and professional events as well.
Now after the event, what I see most helpful is to have these professionals connected to my LinkedIn and I send them a message that I really enjoyed meeting them and I say what most inspired me about their presentation or ask any follow-up questions that I couldn't make during the event. This also gives them a reminder of me, an idea of my background because they will maybe take a look on my profile as a curiosity and also keep us on contact in somehow,
Some people prefer an e-mail but I feel LinkedIn will have that continuous professional link even if we are not talking about anything.
I hope those are helpful hints and would love to hear from others how they carry on their followups.
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Hala Abdo A.M.ASCE
Centreville VA
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-25-2020 11:49
From: Jameelah Ingram
Subject: What are your best tips for networking - both before and after an industry event?
Hello,
I attend a lot of civil engineering industry events and have an opportunity to meet many professionals. How do you continue to develop relationships with professionals that you do not see day-to-day?
Can you please share your best tips for networking at industry events and any follow-up afterwards?
Thanks for your time,
Jameelah
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Jameelah Ingram, P.E., M.ASCE
Washington, D.C.
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