5 Reasons Why Networking at BizCamp Works
As a seasoned(!) networker of almost 5 years, and having experienced many different styles of events, I have a few things to say about the BizCamp format, most recently at BizCampBelfast. These are my suggestions on why networking at BizCamp works, and why you need to be at the next one! We’ll keep you informed.
It’s a bit like Speed Networking
I’ve always found speed networking to be entirely useless as a medium, as five minutes is insufficient to get any real sense of what your counterpart does; you only get a short time pre-determined by someone else) to spend chatting with each person. The difference at BizCamp is that you can choose the time length yourself. This may while rushing inbetween talks, to say a quick “hi”; it could be over a planned coffee; or, during a longer (planned) lunchbreak, or post-event coffee. It’s an opportunity to network with a multiple of people (320 by all accounts).
It’s a bit like Training
BizCamp is all about learning. There are multiple speakers and themes. And, as on training courses, you’ve all day to network casually, as you discuss the learning points, get into groups, argue, discuss, debate, ask, provoke… There’s plenty of scope for things to open and continue a conversation with, which makes it much easier for the introverted to engage.
It’s a bit like Dating
You can get into a real, intense, private conversation with someone should you wish, due to the relaxed nature of events. There is no requirement to attend talks all day.
You can meet all sorts there. Social media is a great method of carrying on the relationship in the virtual world, making it much easier to relate when you meet that person again.
It’s a bit like Schmoozing
Schmoozing’s a worthwhile activity, don’t knock it! You know the deal. We all schmooze a little. We befriend and hang out with the cool cats. Often the cool cats turn out to be cool people too, and just good to be around because of the energy, smiles, fun, insight, positivity, friendliness, life, noise or cupcakes they exude. And, business and referrals too. Thanks guys. :)
Oh, this wee app will now make Schmooozing easier. 
It’s a bit like Chilling with Your Mates
In all, networking at BizCamp is so unlike any other networking activity. Maybe it’s because there’s no unspoken dress code? Maybe it’s because there are no heavy expectations on you as an attendee. (If you want to volunteer to help you can. Future organisers will only be too glad to give you a job to do, I’m sure.)
In all, it’s about as far away from traditional, structured networking (which works too) as possible. You NEED to be at the next one!
Meantime, we’d love to hear your thoughts on the event. Who did you hear that really blew your mind, and inspired you to great things? What elements of the day worked well, or not? Are you a cupcake fan, an oreo fan, or a gingerbread man fan? Have you been inspired to speak at the next BizCamp? And, what about? Answers on a comment below please!
Some Links to the Presentations:
Kathryn Leech: http://www.slideshare.net/bzinetiis/social-media-for-business-5785544
Jordan McClements: http://www.ppcni.com/bizcamp.pdf
If you know of any others, add them to a comment, and we will add them in here.
Image credit: Neil Harrison Photography, the one-man energy machine, who leaped around all day taking excellent pics.
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