From my limited work experience, I've come to realize that Networking Events are meant to connect groups of people in the same business, serving as a great opportunity to build strong contacts and grow together. However, my reality at these events has been quite the opposite. Every time I attend, I encounter the same faces, the same venues, the same rooms, and the same boring atmosphere. Being a newcomer in this industry means that I often leave these events with nothing compared to the so-called seniors, those who entered this field before me. Everyone hopes I will gain something valuable, but I often end up feeling bored or, at best, meeting just a couple of people from my own generation.


1. The Atmosphere


          In the chaotic atmosphere of the ballroom, have you ever felt like you don't belong, even with so many people around? Standing still, watching others engage in conversation while feeling isolated due to my lack of experience makes it hard to join in. I can only stand there, trying to blend in like a curtain swaying by the window, unnoticed. Unless I muster the courage to start a conversation with a few sentences and exchange business cards, I end up with a collection of new contacts from the same old Networking Event.


2. The Venue


          It's a necessity to attend the same old Networking Event venues after work. I can't escape places like Le Grand Ballroom at Sofitel, The Great Hall at Marriott Marquis, or the Embassy Room at Park Hyatt—luxurious 5-star hotels that I visit week after week. It's so repetitive that I feel like escaping into the wilderness.


3. The People


          Saying "Hello" to start a conversation doesn't seem effective when encountering the same groups and familiar faces. It's difficult to join their circle, and I often find myself rolling my eyes and sighing heavily. I keep my feelings to myself and continue to smile through the event. Finding friends at these gatherings isn't hard, but the conversations rarely go beyond a few words and exchanging business cards. I can't integrate like a parasite in a large tree that shares nutrients with me; instead, everything feels stagnant, with no progress at all.


          For me, attending a Networking Event should be about personal development in a new way, or simply put, it should lead to positive growth and change. It shouldn't be about moving forward without gaining anything in return. At the very least, having a new experience should be worthwhile. I once attended an event with BigX, which I consider a must-go. This event provided a fresh experience, with a different atmosphere, people, and venue—not just a ballroom, but a place where individuals from all walks of life could connect and meet new people. The young newcomers at the event all seemed professional, with interesting experiences and business growth. I felt like a part of the event, engaging in conversations and exchanging experiences in a more relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by a variety of drinks, including wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks. BigX is a networking hub that fosters relationships and enhances my potential and growth. Oh, I can hardly wait for the next BigX event!

Thanks for the information from www.workventure.com