Here's how you can maximize your career in Corporate Communications through networking events.
In the fast-paced world of Corporate Communications, your ability to build a robust professional network can be as crucial as your communication skills. Networking events offer a goldmine of opportunities for career growth and learning. Whether you're a seasoned communicator or new to the field, these gatherings can connect you with industry leaders, potential mentors, and peers who can provide insights and open doors to new possibilities. By engaging actively at these events, you can elevate your profile within the corporate communications community and set the stage for future advancements.
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Dr Marko SelakovicStrategic communication professional and academic. Current Chairman of Serbian Business Council (Dubai Chamber)…
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Parth KhareTop Voice - Corporate Communications | Corporate Partnerships @ NoBroker | Experienced in Forging Corporate Alliances…
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Jessica GibsonManager- Corporate Communications and Culture @ Damco Solutions | Developing Strategic Communications & Strengthening…
Before attending any networking event, research is key. Familiarize yourself with the guest list, which often includes influential figures in Corporate Communications. Understanding their backgrounds and current roles will allow you to tailor your conversations and make a memorable impression. Additionally, set clear objectives for what you want to achieve, whether it's gaining insights into industry trends, seeking career advice, or simply expanding your professional circle. A strategic approach will enable you to navigate the event effectively and make the most of every interaction.
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Jessica Gibson
Manager- Corporate Communications and Culture @ Damco Solutions | Developing Strategic Communications & Strengthening Brands and Cultures
Looking to boost your Corporate Communications career? Hit up those networking events! They're gold mines for making connections and learning about new opportunities. Don't be shy – introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and strike up conversations. Share your experiences and listen to others' stories. And remember, follow up afterward to nurture those connections. With networking events, you're not just expanding your network – you're opening doors to your career's next big leap!
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Erion Isufi
Digital and Technology Enthusiast, Company and Team Builder, Growth Minded Entrepreneur!
I’m a big fan of all kind of networking events, and I believe they can significantly benefit anyone's career. Whether you're a young professional, a manager, or a CEO, networking helps you connect with others and allows others to get to know you. Personally, I prefer informal networking events because they let people see the real you, not just the corporate persona. So, take the time to attend seminars, conferences, meetups, and other networking opportunities. Invest in building relationships with the people you meet and find interesting. Reach out to them and engage regularly, via sms, email and even phone calls. Remember, no one will know what you’re capable of unless you make those connections.
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Henry Nii Dottey, APR, BA, MBA
Communication and Marketing Executive
Attending networking events is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people, expand your network, and learn about new trends and developments in the industry. Consider: 1. Prepare beforehand by knowing about the event and possible attendees 2. Dress professionally and look your best 3. Introduce yourself with confidence with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. 4. Listen and ask questions to learn about the other person's experience, interests, and opinions. 5. Get involved and connected 6. Follow up by sending a follow-up email to people you have spoken with. The above tips can help you maximize these opportunities to build meaningful professional relationships and advance in your career.
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Susan Elford
I am a powerful and energetic coach & visionary who activates -- and helps you claim! -- your inner wisdom while building the career or business that maximizes your strengths and desired impact.
I have literally built my career from a student to now by attending networking events. It's hard! And you meet so many people. I remember attending networking events (when I was young (aka naive) and very hungry for work) and couldn't believe how a contact can open a door to opportunity. Never turn down an opportunity to network. It's worth its weight in connection & paid work!
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Tanu Jain
CEO and Co-founder at Reboot Game Studios Private Limited | Women in Games Ambassador
Networking events are the best place where you can win people for life and build strong relationships. Remember, it's not just about presenting yourself but also about gaining valuable insights from industry experts. Be a good listener, Be mindful and considerate of the time you spend with each person, know who you are meeting and what you want to discuss, dress well and post event follow up is a must.
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Shashank Bharadwaj
Building WebX IMS | PR Moment 30U30 & Reputation Today's 40 Young Turks | CommsJobs.in | Integrated Communication Strategist |
Networking events can be invaluable for advancing your Corporate Communications career. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and meetups to connect with professionals, exchange insights, and learn about job opportunities. Engage in meaningful conversations, share your expertise, and actively listen to others. Cultivate relationships by following up with contacts and offering assistance when possible. Leverage networking events to expand your knowledge, visibility, and professional network, paving the way for career growth in Corporate Communications.
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Zarmina KHAN
Head of Global Business with Expertise in FMCG and OMC Industries | Business & Brand Strategist | Advocate for Women Empowerment and Maternal Nutrition
There has to be an elevator pitch that defines and outlines of who the person is and what his or her professional aspirations are. Make sure that the pitch is adaptable depending on the interests of the person you are engaging with.
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Raghav Bairwa
Analyst - Business Services/ FS Consulting @ KPMG | DU, BMS'21 Grad
Strategically engage with key industry figures and peers. Prepare an elevator pitch highlighting your expertise and achievements. Actively listen and ask insightful questions to demonstrate your interest and knowledge. Exchange business cards and follow up with personalized messages to build lasting connections. Participate in discussions and panels to increase visibility. Leverage social media to connect with attendees before and after the event. Join professional groups and attend events regularly to stay updated on industry trends and opportunities, establishing yourself as a proactive and well-connected professional.
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Cristina Bonillo Olivares
Communications & External Affairs Director | Public Relations | Public Affairs | Partnerships | Sustainability
In my experience, it has been during networking events when I have found the most incredible partners and achieve the better results for increasing reputation (my own and the organizations I work for). Its not just a personal opportunity to get visibility, but these events are great to pitch briefly your career and experience, look for innovation, meeting people doing things differently, learn and find alliances.
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Simone Sampaio
Executive in the Health / Business Relationship / Customer Success / Business Management
A comunicação empresarial é uma função multifacetada que, quando executada corretamente, pode melhorar significativamente a eficiência, a cultura organizacional e as relações externas de uma empresa. Ela requer transparência e clareza, escuta ativa e treinamento contínuo.Algumas ferramentas são usada para facilitar a comunicação evitando ruidos como por exemplo: comunicação visual como o uso de graficos, infograficos, videos, um storytelling técnica usada para envolver e trazer dinamismo para a situação.
Crafting a compelling elevator pitch is essential for making a lasting impact in a brief encounter. Your pitch should succinctly convey who you are, what you do, and what you're looking for in your Corporate Communications career. Practice delivering it with confidence and enthusiasm, ensuring it resonates with your audience and invites further conversation. Remember, the goal is to pique interest and establish a connection that can be nurtured post-event.
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Dr Marko Selakovic
Strategic communication professional and academic. Current Chairman of Serbian Business Council (Dubai Chamber), Assistant Professor & Deputy Director (S P Jain School of Global Management)
Meet the people without hustling, and approach them with meaningful topics. Senior professionals are usually fed up with "professional networkers" and people who are trying to sell themselves and/or their services. Be genuine, polite and interesting, and show you know what you're talking about: this is very often the key.
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Megha Chaturvedi
Strategic Communications| Winner PRmoment 30 under 30, e4m 40 under 40
Preparing an elevator pitch can help maximize your networking effort by a great mile: 1. It helps you effectively introduce yourself and your skills. 2. Can aid in clearly expressing what you do and what you're looking for in your career. 3. Can spark interest and curiosity about you and your professional endeavors. 5. Gives others an opportunity to understand how they might be able to help you, or how you can help them. 6. Lastly, having a prepared pitch boosts confidence when engaging with new contacts.
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Eric Moore, CPC
Eric Moore specializes in coaching introverted leaders in the tech and creative industries to thrive in a hybrid world.
Ah, the pitch. It's true that it helps to have a 'compelling' pitch, but here's the rub—you'll come off like a pitch, salesy. Focus on building a human connection first at a networking event. I recommend asking about those who might be interested in your pitch. You could start with, "As a newcomer, I'm unsure of the right people to engage with." The other person is likely to ask about your interest/topic. Once you're asked about the topic, that's your chance to deliver your pitch. BUT make it very brief, like under 30 seconds, and wait for them to respond. Don't say more. Let them think about it and they'll either engage you further or introduce you to the right person.
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Anna Dobrovolska
CMO/CCO | Brand development, sales growth, and improving business value
Can you explain what you do and why it's unique to a kid in three sentences? If yes, you've got it. It's that simple! ;) Easy to say, harder to do. Try this exercise: - Make a long list of all strong points you can think of using simple words - Rate them by importance - Choose the top 5 that are the most unique - Build your pitch using those words mixed with specific triggers in your industry. Thank me later. ;)
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Laura Rosales Mori
Comunicación Interna y Endomarketing | Clima y Cultura | Experiencia del colaborador
Elevar el tono en la comunicación es importante para mantener una interacción positiva y efectiva. Recuerda que elevar el tono no significa hablar más fuerte o ser agresivo. Se trata de crear un ambiente positivo y constructivo en la comunicación. 😊 Expresa tus ideas de manera clara y concisa. Sé específico en tus mensajes para evitar malentendidos.
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Santanu Bhattacharjee
Santanu Productions - Corporate Video Mumbai
As corporate communications solution provider, I've learned the power of a pitching right. It's not just about what you say, but how you say it. Every encounter is an opportunity to make a lasting impression. Frame it in your mind - who I am, what I do, and what I'm seeking here. With confidence, I engage, inviting them into a conversation that often lead establishing a connection that grow beyond the initial encounter, nurturing relationships that lead to meaningful collaborations.
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Laetitia Boidevaix
Head of Marketing DACH | Monster helps you find the perfect candidate-job fit!
I see the famous elevator pitch as a great exercise to decide on what you want to share about yourself. But listen to the person first and you will know how to address them personally. Ensure that you do interest them with the information you are sharing, and that it is not just a one-sided pitch. Be respectful of their time as much as you expect yours to be.
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Aranzazu Nuñez Granado
Como la " navaja suiza" tu elevator pitch ha de ser versátil. Apto para toda la audiencia, no hacer uso de muchos mensajes y procurar que en todos ellos exista algún elemento que conecte. En realidad es como ver "el trailer de una película" contar en poco tiempo una historia que genere engagement y que deje algún recuerdo. En la comunicación corporativa es importante generar un impacto positivo y para ello, es importante cuidar, tanto la comunicación verbal como la no verbal. Podemos perder oportunidades, si nuestro lenguaje se contradice.
During the event, actively engage with other attendees. Listen attentively and show genuine interest in their work and experiences. This not only helps in building rapport but also demonstrates your communication skills—a core aspect of your profession. Ask thoughtful questions and share relevant experiences that showcase your expertise and passion for Corporate Communications. Remember, effective networking is as much about being a good listener as it is about being a good conversationalist.
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Parth Khare
Top Voice - Corporate Communications | Corporate Partnerships @ NoBroker | Experienced in Forging Corporate Alliances for Strategic B2B Solutioning.
In my personal experience, I have attended multiple networking sessions, some of which were "No Agenda" basis. In an agenda session, people come with a pre-built sentiment towards all the other people, knowing that they are their to sell and to be sold. No agenda meetings are more like making new friends. Engaging fully in any of the above two types of networking sessions is crucial since you are there for a short time and that time should be leveraged for making strong relationships which can be very helpful going forward.
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Ana Jiménez Rey
Carboagri's Communications Manager / Oleo Mitiga's Communications Manager / International Relations Specialist and Journalist / Official Cambridge Assessment English Exam Supervisor
From my personal perspective, actively participating in networking events goes beyond simply showing up—it's about diving into conversations, engaging genuinely, and forging meaningful connections with fellow professionals. A crucial part of active participation is practicing attentive and active listening. It means being fully present in the conversation, making eye contact, and showing genuine interest in what the other person is sharing. I often find that I learn much more from listening to others than from speaking myself.
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Hervé Ugo
Journaliste free-lance
Tachez d’être pertinent dans vos remarques, vos prises de parole. Que les autres personnes retiennent quand vous vous êtes exprimés. Et surtout, pensez à écouter les autres, à leur poser des questions, à relancer la conversation et si votre mémoire vous fait défaillance, ne pas hésiter à se faire un pense bête sur son téléphone pour noter quelques éléments sur les différentes personnes que vous avez pu rencontrer.
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Laura Rosales Mori
Comunicación Interna y Endomarketing | Clima y Cultura | Experiencia del colaborador
Ten en cuenta que la participación plena no solo implica hablar, sino también escuchar y estar presente en el momento. Escucha activa: Presta atención a lo que dice la otra persona y muestra interés genuino. Haz preguntas para demostrar que estás involucrado en la conversación. Lenguaje positivo: Utiliza palabras y frases positivas. Evita el sarcasmo o comentarios negativos que puedan herir los sentimientos de los demás. Empatía: Trata de entender las emociones y perspectivas de la otra persona. Muestra comprensión y apoyo. Respeto: Sé cortés y considerado. Evita interrumpir o hablar de manera condescendiente.
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Santanu Bhattacharjee
Santanu Productions - Corporate Video Mumbai
At events, I get into conversations with fellow attendees, eager to learn about their work and experiences. I believe in the power of attentive listening and genuine curiosity to forge connections. Through thoughtful questions and sharing my own journey in Corporate Communications, I subtly share my expertise and passion. Effective networking, to me, is about both speaking and listening with authenticity and enthusiasm.
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Ana Banquer
Directora Comercial y de Comunicación certámenes "Producto del Año" y "Líderes en Servicio"
Como Directora Comercial y de Comunicación de 2 certamenes, siempre estamos fomentando espacios y eventos de networking para que diferentes empresas y profesionales puedan potenciar las conexiones y las acciones a realizar. Asimismo, creo que es fundamental participar en ferias, eventos o reuniones donde se puedan crear conexiones de valor. Aqui la escucha activa es un valor fundamental.
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Adriana Luvizotto Vieira
Gestora de RH - RHF Talentos | Especialista em Gestão de Pessoas e Desenvolvimento de Equipes | Headhunter | Analista Comportamental DISC | Consultora de Carreira.
Os eventos corporativos são momentos importantes de trocas de conhecimentos, para além de, fortalecimento das redes profissionais. Para ter uma participação efetiva que colabore com o desenvolvimento profissional e a Comunicação Corporativa, não basta apenas estar presente, é necessário “marcar presença”, reforçando sua identidade no contexto profissional. Assim, de fato, para estar envolvido, é preciso ouvir com atenção e, havendo possibilidades, contribuir com suas experiências ou compartilhar conhecimentos prévios. Procure falar com propriedade e, de forma positiva, trazer a atenção para o seu discurso, porém, mantendo a empatia com os demais.
The real magic of networking often happens after the event. Follow up with the contacts you've made by sending personalized messages that reference your conversation. This can be through email or professional social media platforms. Expressing gratitude for their time and reiterating your interest in staying connected will help cement the relationship. Suggesting a coffee meeting or a call to continue the discussion can further solidify the connection and open up more opportunities for collaboration or mentorship.
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Ana Banquer
Directora Comercial y de Comunicación certámenes "Producto del Año" y "Líderes en Servicio"
El primer paso es continuar con esas conexiones que se crearon en los diferentes espacios de networking que se asistio. Utilizar herramientas para hacer seguimiento a estas conversaciones, y sumarnos recordatorios para no perder el hilo. Es importante insistir, y no dejar de intentarlo. A pesar de que el mundo online nos da muchas mas oportunidades de tener mayores reuniones a diario, un encuentro presencial fortalece el vinculo para seguir potenciandolo.
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Ana Jiménez Rey
Carboagri's Communications Manager / Oleo Mitiga's Communications Manager / International Relations Specialist and Journalist / Official Cambridge Assessment English Exam Supervisor
Following up after networking events is crucial for maintaining and strengthening connections made during the event. It's an opportunity to express appreciation for the time and conversation shared, and to reinforce the desire to stay connected in the future.
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Anna Geffert
Strike while the iron is hot! Following up is absolutely vital and it needs to happen within 24/48hrs of the event. I often do it on the way home. Social media is a great way to start and then I also send an email. If nothing comes back I will usually send a chaser a few days later - sharing something insightful in their sector or something which carries in our conversation. Networks and networking are the lifeblood to being successful in corporate Comms so you need to be brave and just go for it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
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Santanu Bhattacharjee
Santanu Productions - Corporate Video Mumbai
Never sleep over your past efforts. I've learned that follow-ups lead to opportunities way faster . Sending messages and staying connected keeps the connection alive. I've found that suggesting a coffee meeting or a call to delve deeper into topics we discussed not only solidifies the relationship but also opens doors for future possibilities.
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Syed Shakeel Zia
Product Strategy Maker | D2C & D2B |B2B & B2C | SaaS & Leasing Business Consultant | Growth Hacker | Financial Management OMEGA |
I really found there is a magic in follow up but one should very carefully adopt this process as a very thin line in between follow up and chewing gum to customer.
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Aranzazu Nuñez Granado
Sin duda, esto es como cualquier relación humana en otro entorno hay que cuidarla. Mi experiencia me ha llevado a centrar el seguimiento en la búsqueda de encuentros posteriores en reuniones informales; un café, una comida, son espacios donde uno se siente cómodo y se construyen nuevos vínculos. Te permite conocer otros aspectos y dimensiones del profesional con el que te relacionas en un entorno amigable.
To truly maximize your career through networking, stay active within the Corporate Communications community between events. Engage with industry content online, contribute to discussions, and share your insights. This consistent presence keeps you on the radar of your network and positions you as a proactive and dedicated professional. It also increases the likelihood that others will think of you when opportunities arise, as you've demonstrated a genuine commitment to the field.
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Mónica Nahás
Interpreto tus sueños, los pongo en palabras y los impulso al mundo digital para que se hagan realidad gracias al copywriting.
Por experiencia los espacios de networking son fundamentales para potenciar las relaciones y vínculos corporativos y profesionales. Para que esta expeiencia sea provechosa es fundamental tener un elevator pitch adecuado y trabajar en tu marca personal. Tu elevator pitch debe ser claro, conciso y personalizado para cada ocasión y cada interlocutor, asegurando que tu mensaje resuene con quienes hablas. Además, fortalecer tu marca personal a través de una presencia online coherente, compartir conocimientos y mantener relaciones genuinas en tu red de contactos te ayudará a ser recordado y reconocido en tu campo de expertise.
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Kelly Torres Betancurt
I help you to tell and boost your social and environmental impact stories to connect with your audience 🍃 Tips to boost your Corporate Volunteer Program
I think this is one of the hardest parts to do, because, you can have a first contact with that person, talk for a while, but when the event is over, we go back to our routines and we lose that connection. It's at that moment, when you need to be active and proactive, send an email, a message, connect through LinkedIn, to keep that relationship and cultivate it.
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Oliver Harry
Head of Corporate Affairs
The issue is people are so busy, but for me you combat that by changing perspective, to understand that building connections and keeping them, is a core part of your job (not viewed as an extra). It has taken me many years to realise the value of connections. A phrase I like, is “to be more interested, than interesting”.
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Anna Geffert
I think the true power of networking via social media really came to the fore during Covid. I had CEO’s of big clients, who previously thought LinkedIn was a ‘nice-to-have’ coming to me and asking for help on their personal channels. They saw the tipping point and it hasn’t tipped back. Often as communicators it can be a case of do as I say, not as I do - who has time to update their multi-channel social self every time something happens? No one! But it is important so you have to make the time. You can schedule posts and posts don’t have to be war and peace - keeping it short and sweet.
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Santanu Bhattacharjee
Santanu Productions - Corporate Video Mumbai
Staying active within the community is difficult but has been a game-changer for me. Early in my career, I was hesitant to put myself out there, preferring face-to-face interactions at events. But once I started engaging with industry content post the event, everything changed. I found myself connecting with professionals from around the globe, sharing insights, and more opportunities.
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Ana Banquer
Directora Comercial y de Comunicación certámenes "Producto del Año" y "Líderes en Servicio"
Mantenerse activo en la comunidad de comunicaciones corporativas es un consejo fundamental para maximizar tu carrera a través del networking. Como Directora Comercial y de Comunicación, puedo confirmar que la presencia constante en línea y la participación activa en las discusiones son claves para el éxito profesional.
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Nunda J
Head of Fundraising and Partnership Development
Staying active will not only keep you on track but will also spark innovation through continuous learning as a result of unlimited exposure. The more you stay active the more you appreciate the changing dynamics in the cooperate arena
Don't overlook the power of online networking platforms to complement your in-person efforts. These digital spaces allow you to connect with Corporate Communications professionals from around the globe, offering a broader perspective and more diverse opportunities. Join groups, participate in webinars, and contribute to forums related to your industry. The connections you make online can be just as valuable as those made face-to-face, often leading to collaborations that transcend geographical boundaries.
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Swati Kapoor
Final year @KIIT University||4⭐in SQL @HackerRank || Trainee @MedTourEasy;Data Science || Debater || Communication is the key ||Attended School of Computer Engineering, KIIT DU
One of the best ways to improve corporate communications is to join online networking platforms. Online meetings are just as valuable as face-to-face meetings. Participating in an online community helps connect with people and gain exposure to different perspectives within your area. It only takes a single click to connect with someone and start a formal conversation. So, one should be a part of the online world to leverage its importance.
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Terfa Igbo
Youth Advocate | Scholar | OYW Ambassador | IT Specialist | YALI Fellow | TEF-UNDP Awardee | Food Systems Innovator
To add to the above, I will suggest the message is kept simple and short. Most executives do not have the plethora of much time as they juggle with a number of commitments. Networking is key, but stakeholders should understand the rudiments of building the right networks.
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Adriana Luvizotto Vieira
Gestora de RH - RHF Talentos | Especialista em Gestão de Pessoas e Desenvolvimento de Equipes | Headhunter | Analista Comportamental DISC | Consultora de Carreira.
Os eventos Online, jamais podem ser desclassificados, principalmente na "nova" realidade que estamos inseridos. Tive a oportunidade, durante a pandemia, de realizar meu Mestrado de forma totalmente remota. Essa experiência, me oportunizou conhecer um mundo, até então desconhecido, porém, totalmente produtivo. Poder participar de dezenas de congressos e seminários à distância, me possibilitou compartilhar conhecimentos e conhecer profissionais de diferentes localidades (nacionais e internacionais). Essa vivência, contribuir para quebrar paradigmas, comprovando que as plataformas onlines, podem aproximar pessoas de forma efetiva e validarem discussões importantes, que muitas vezes, devido às dificuldades logísticas, poderiam não acontecer.
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Geraldo Taveira
Coord. de vendas | Eu te ajudo com relatórios para análise estratégica | Cofundador da Agency O2 | Copywriter | Roteirista e ator em peças teatrais voluntárias.
Não basta apenas estar online; é necessário definir uma estratégia consolidada de posicionamento nas plataformas. As pessoas, de maneira geral, estão mais críticas quanto à autenticidade das informações sobre as empresas das quais desejam adquirir algo. Cabe às empresas desenvolver uma estratégia que entregue valor para aqueles com quem elas visam criar relações comerciais e ampliar a rede de contatos.
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Fábio Di Renzo
Pai do João Emílio | Professor I Palestrante I Autor do Livro: Reflexões Provocações e Dicas sobre a tal Comunicação Interna I Fundador da Novembro 4 - Comunicação Interna e Top Internal Communications Voice.
Uma forma bacana e poderosa de criar vínculos nestes eventos é perguntar e responder "o que não deu certo". Isso! Algum projeto ou ação que não deu certo no ambiente de trabalho e como você e a outra pessoa lidaram com isto? O que aprenderam e como faria diferente se fosse hoje. Não é cultivar o erro, mas sim reconhecer que nem sempre tudo são flores. Isto gera credibilidade. Isto é genuíno. A vulnerabilidade colocada a seu favor. Faça esta experiência e perceba como dá resultados positivos.
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Ana Banquer
Directora Comercial y de Comunicación certámenes "Producto del Año" y "Líderes en Servicio"
El networking es una herramienta poderosa que puede ayudarte a alcanzar tus metas profesionales y personales. A menudo, se asocia simplemente con la acumulación de contactos, pero su verdadero valor radica en algo mucho más profundo. El networking se trata de crear relaciones significativas con personas que comparten tus intereses y objetivos. Estas relaciones se basan en la confianza, el respeto y la colaboración mutua. Desde mi experiencia, estas relaciones luego han terminado en colaboraciones o partnership exitosos, o incluso en jefes o compañeros de trabajo.
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