1. Networking (The Good and the Bad)

• Benefits:

1. Expands your professional and personal connections.

2. Opens up opportunities for career advancement and collaborations.

3. Provides access to diverse perspectives and knowledge.

• Challenges:

1. Can be time-consuming and sometimes feel awkward.

2. Requires effort to maintain relationships.

3. Potential for superficial connections if not done genuinely.

2. When to Start

• Early Career:

1. Start networking as soon as possible, even during your education.

2. Internships, part-time jobs, and university events are great starting points.

• Mid-Career:

1. Continue to build and maintain your network.

2. Attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars.

• Anytime:

1. It's never too late to start. Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field.

3. The Process

• Identify Goals:

1. Determine what you want to achieve through networking (e.g., job opportunities, mentorship, knowledge sharing).

• Research:

1. Identify key individuals and organizations in your industry.

• Reach Out:

1. Use a personalized approach when contacting new people.

2. Attend events and engage in conversations.

• Follow-Up:

1. Send thank-you notes and keep in touch regularly.

4. Commitment

• Consistency:

1. Regularly attend networking events and engage with your contacts.

• Genuine Interest:

1. Show genuine interest in others' work and lives.

• Long-Term Relationships:

1. Focus on building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships rather than short-term gains.

5. Tips & Tricks

• Elevator Pitch:

1. Prepare a concise and compelling introduction about yourself.

• Active Listening:

1. Listen more than you speak. Show interest in others' stories and experiences.

• Follow-Up:

1. Always follow up after meeting someone new. A simple message can go a long way.

• Leverage Social Media:

1. Use platforms like LinkedIn to stay connected and share relevant content.

• Be Yourself:

1. Authenticity is key. Be genuine and approachable.

Speaker: 

Kim Stapleton, VP of Client Development for Gravity Talent Solutions

Kim Stapleton is passionate about making meaningful connections and helping those in her network, so the world of recruiting and staffing has come very naturally for her. With over two decades of experience as a trusted advisor for financial executives, she has helped countless individuals navigate complex business challenges and address human capital needs.

Kim spent nine years with Grant Thornton and four years with Ice Miller. Kim holds a B.A. from Valparaiso University and enjoys giving back to her community. She co-chairs Metropolitan Family Services' Alumni Board Committee after being a dedicated board member for ten years. Additionally, Kim serves as a Board Member of the Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago and The Hatchery.

Agenda: 
4:30 - Registration and Networking
5:00 - Conversation begins
6:00 - Networking 

Pricing: 
Complimentary to all Members.