The San Diego Biotechnology Network hosts a speed networking event twice a year because it’s a great way for local life scientists and professionals to make connections, which is what we’re all about. Some would argue that face to face communication is very “last century,” but there is no better way to get to know someone. Check out our tried and true speed networking howto along with photos from our last event, and here are further tips to help you make every second count at the February 2nd event:
- Get good at introducing yourself. We’ve talked about building a personal brand based on your expertise or the problem you can help others solve. Think about your “tagline” and introduce yourself that way. An example introduction would be “I characterize protein kinases to advance cancer research.” Such an introduction is much more useful than “I’m a Postdoc at Scripps.”
- Craft a 30 second elevator speech. After you’ve said your hellos, you need to expound upon your experience and relevance with a 30 second “elevator speech.” Check out this post which is an excellent howto, and remember that practice makes perfect!
- Give plenty of time at the end (you’ll have 4 minutes total) to exchange business cards and make plans to follow up. First make sure that you have and bring plenty of business cards, either from your institution or an independent, fast turnaround site such as Moo (see one local scientist’s incredibly creative business cards). Make sure that it is incredibly easy for someone to follow up with you, including all your contact information as well as ways to connect with or follow you on LinkedIn, Twitter, or your blog. Speed networking is obviously fast paced and you want to make sure that not only are you memorable, but that you remember each person’s relevance. Feel free to write directly on their card and/or take notes in a notebook.
- Lastly, MOVE ON after 4 minutes, when you’ve been given the cue, so that everyone can meet more people.
As Louis Pasteur said, “…chance favors only the prepared mind,” so start preparing and click here to join us February 2nd!
Sponsors
We have sponsorship opportunities for this very popular event, and would also like to give away lab timers and 2015 calendars. Contact us for more information soon!
Event Details
Who: Life science researchers and professionals in the greater San Diego area
What: San Diego Biotechnology Network February 2 2015 Speed Networking Event
When: Monday, February 2nd, 2015, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Green Flash Brewery Tasting Room, 6550 Mira Mesa Boulevard San Diego, 92121 (directions below)
Cost: $25/20 (Academic), $50 (Recruiters), dinner provided, beer and soda available for purchase.
Contact: https://sdbn.org/contact
For more information about the event: https://sdbn.org/february
Registration: sdbn.org/register
Directions: From the west: From the 805 North or South exit Mira Mesa Blvd, head east for 2.0 miles, the Green Flash Tasting Room will be on the left/north side of the street at Flanders Drive. From the east: From the 15 North or South exit Mira Mesa Blvd, head west for 3.6 miles, the Green Flash Tasting Room will be on the right/north side of the street at Flanders Drive.
Parking: The Green Flash lot holds about 70 cars, so come early and carpool if you’d like to park there. You can also park on the street, but be very mindful that there are some poorly marked ‘no parking’ areas, especially on Sequence where there is a center lane.
