New To SpiceCorps ?
Heres 7 Tips to get the most out of the meet-up -
- Don't be Shy - It can be very intimidating being a new attendee in a well established group. No need to make a big group announcement, but small steps like introducing yourself to the group your sitting with can go a long way. Remember everyone is there to make new connections.
- It isn't all about you - It's easy to get caught up complaining about the latest "user initiated" disaster or how you just became a level 5 Linux ninja, but be respectful of those around you. A conversation is a two way street.
- Don't sell too hard - Whether your a vendor or an IT consultant, we've gathered together to socialize, swap war stories and develop professionally, not be bombarded with high pressure sales pitches. If your product or service does comes up, keep it real. Focus on its technical merits and be genuine. People respond to authenticity.
- Volunteer - SpiceCorps meetups are 100% non-profit and are kept running by the kindness of it's members. Donate some time to give back to the group that's worked hard to add value for you.
- Follow-up - It's tough to make long lasting connections with IT pros you may only meet on a sporadic basis. Meet someone that you get a long with? Swap business cards or emails. Keeping in touch outside the group helps strengthen relationships.
- Be Genuine - No need to sell a slick image here. We're just down to earth IT folk. Whether you support 5 users or 100, had the best day at the office or the worst, this is the group that'll understand your IT woes like no other will.
- Have Fun - Participate in ice breakers, have a beer or two or share a funny story. These aren't your classic up-tight networking business events. At your local SpiceCorps meeting you'll meet genuine and like minded people always ready to share a smile and a laugh.
Haven't Attended a SpiceCorps Meetup?
There are hundreds of local meetups around the world run by SpiceCorps IT volunteers so odds are good there is one right in your neighborhood. Use the SpiceWorks "Find your IT Meet-up" tool to find one:
