5 types of networking events actually worth your time

5 types of networking events actually worth your time5 types of networking events actually worth your timeThe idea ofnetworkingused to produce a physical reaction in me, similar to riding a roller coaster sweaty palms, nervous chatter, and a slightly queasy stomach.Unless youre a regular performer, no one relishes the idea of planting yourself in a room full of strangers and attempting to be charming - especially when your livelihood is involvedDespite the universal awkwardness that usually comes with these events, there is an excess of events to choose from in every city. From happy hours to bowling matches to workshops, it seems like more opportunities to network are popping up every day. Here are just a few we think youll like.Types of networking events worth your time1. Breakfast networkingIf youre a morning person, this is a great way to abflug your day. What better scenario to schmooze than over egg-white omelets? Breakfast meetings allow all of the early risers to get ahead. Youre the first pitch of the day, so you get in front of eignung employers or clients before theyre inundated with requests and resumes later that day. Unlike happy hours, you also get to interact with influencers before a potentially stressful workday hits (and before the alcohol starts flowing).2. Industry-specific speaking engagementsWhether youre in marketing, retail, accounting, or another field, there are always people around to learn from. Take advantage of networking events in your area that have a speaker or speakers on a topic directly related to your ort or department. You will learn from the experts themselves and ask questions you might not be able to in a webinar or online QA. Youll also be surrounded by attendees in your field - take advantage of picking their brains Bonus tip If you have the confidence, offer to speak at one of these events yourself3. Roundtable eventsSimilar to speaking engagements, roundtables are beneficial to those looking to advance their knowl edge by communicating with their peers. Roundtables allow for open forums and discussions that, more often than not, lead to creative ideas and new directions. If youre stuck on a project, story, or proposal, these are great events to get out of your rut and make some new connections in the meantime.4. Happy hour networking meetupsIf you get the roller coaster anxiety about events that I do, happy hour is a tried-and-true tradition in the networking world. It allows for more of a relaxed atmosphere - making small talk and approaching strangers is simpler in a casual environment.Bonus Tip Avoid happy hours if you are actively looking for a job - given their usually laid-back nature, it might encourage you to make the wrong impression on a potential boss5. LinkedIn groupsThe digital age of networking is a blessing to the introvert in all of us. There are a ton of networking groups and forums on LinkedIn and other networks that allow communication, problem-solving and legitimate rela tionship-building (both business and personal) on a daily basis. If youre nervous about jumping into the event pool, this is a great way to dip your toes in.Even this list will leave you with a mind-spinning number of networking event options. So how do you decide which of them are worth your time?What to consider when picking a professional networking event1. Choose an event that benefits your career objectivesAre you looking for a job? New clients? Start-up capital? Either way, different events (especially the worthwhile ones) are tailored to specific goals.2. Find out where the right people will be - and go thereIf you are looking for a financial backer, you might want to avoid networking events that are lacking the decision-makers. If youre looking for a job, try to find events attended by hiring managers or HR representatives.3. Ask yourself what you need to learnAre you looking to attend a meetup or event in your field to escalate your growth? Check out the hosts, the speaker s, and the topics being covered. If its something youre already an expert on, look for a more advanced session.4. Find a conference or event that fits your personality and career goalsOnce your objective is clear, choose an event that will give you a chance to shine. If youre uncomfortable in big groups, look for events in more intimate settings.The last rule is important in our networking-cluttered world. Because the options are vast, you can - and should - attend events that will suit your needs and your A-gameHow to find networking events in your areaOkay so weve covered what events you should try to attend, and how to decide which ones you want to make time for - but how do you even know where to find these networking events to choose from? A quick google search of, networking events insert city here is a great way to start - but it can also be overwhelming with the amount of results youll likely get.1. Your city event calendarYour city likely has some sort of online event c alendar - even if your city is more like a farm and your networking opportunities are limited to the weekly bingo competitions at one of the local churches. Its still something, right? Your city calendar is a great starting point, because the list of events is already curated based on an important factor distance.2. EventbriteIts an event calendar thats super collaborative. Other people post events, and you get to search through them (you can even RSVP through the site.) Navigate to different events by date, category, event type, or price. Youll find what youre looking for in no time.Pro tip There are many websites like Eventbrite that showcase events in your area. Try Meetup and Facebook if you want more options.3. Utilize your existing networkThats right - ask around at work Maybe your coworkers are in industry-specific professional networks, or are secretly genius copywriters who teach multiple creative writing classes each week. Your boss might know of some local groups or mee tings that you can attend.Reach out to connections in your existing network, and see what events theyve found helpful or exciting. You can also ask friends (especially if theyre in an industry youre interested in) if they have any upcoming events on their radar. Even if you dont get any recommendations right away, youre letting everyone know youre interested - and youll be the first person they call when they hear of something.This article first appeared on Career Contessa.