Caitlin Lopez, the Communications & Events Coordinator at the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce and the co-leader of its Young Professionals Network, told the gathered group some thoughts they certainly wanted to hear.
“You’re going to be the standout person by coming to these events,” she started. “You’re going to create partnerships, and this is going to lead to career growth.”
There’s just one catch: The four dozen or so Kean University students would have to do something they probably didn’t like to reach this goal: They had to talk to people. Face to face.
Networking can be a challenge for any generation. Those in Gen Z (born between 1997-2012 and fully immersed in a digital world) may find it even tougher.
This is one of the workplace issues the Young Professionals Network is addressing.
Lopez was leading a presentation on Networking 101 based on the “ARE Method” developed by Dr. Carol Flemming.
ARE stands for Anchor, Reveal, Encourage and is used as a framework for conversation with strangers. Lopez added her twist: Expand.
“This is really important to open those doors for networking, open it to a deeper conversation and move that conversation forward,” she said.
The “YP” Network has undergone several iterations since 2019, with its most recent form taking shape last year after the induction of its inaugural Board of Directors. The group is free for anyone between the ages of 21-40 and boasts well over 600 members. The network typically hosts four events a year, averaging about 100 attendees per event.
Lopez runs it with Amirah Hussain, the chamber’s Director of Government Relations.
This event, held April 9 at Kean University’s North Avenue Academic Building, brought together more than 100 students and professionals to learn and practice networking in a safe, low-stress environment.
Topics included the importance of networking, how to plan for an event — and how to network effectively.
Lopez told the crowd to start off small and have a plan.
You don’t need an elaborate two-minute speech.
A simple introduction, followed by a question or two, is all you need.
“You can always talk about the weather,” she said. “It’s a great opener; you can always fall back on that.”
After the 10-minute presentation, everyone was encouraged to network with each other. The beauty of the Young Professionals Network is everyone is in the same boat and has common ground. It invites more relaxed conversations.
This reporter had several first-time networkers walk right up to me, introduce themselves and use exactly what Lopez had just preached. People had their guard down and were willing to get out of their comfort zone.
With these tools, the hope is for students and the next generation to enter the workforce as skilled and experienced networkers. Networking is professional development at this stage in their career; it’s about building up that essential and important skill they’ll carry with them their entire careers.
“Networking is about more than just meeting people,” Lopez said. “It’s about building strategic connections to ensure that when a job opportunity becomes available or a challenge requires solving, your name is the first one mentioned.
“Great career moves can start with a single conversation and connection.”
