In a previous weekly business networking tip, I wrote about how Going to Events is a smart networking thing to do, as you meet more people, make new connections and increase your public visibility (the see and be seen principle.)
This week’s networking tip takes the power of events to the next level. Rather than just being a guest, you can step up to the plate and become a volunteer table captain for a non-profit fund raising event.
Being a Table Captain will put you in the power position of the host- the creator of opportunity and good will for others.
A table captain is someone who commits to bringing 9-10 people to a non profit fund raising event (luncheon, dinner, awards banquet, gala, etc.) to help raise money for a worthy cause.
This opportunity is not just reserved for corporations.
Individuals can be Table Captains.
All that is required is a little time, some leadership and the willingness to INVITE your friends to join you. You don’t have to pay their way. Your guests will make their own donations to the charity at the event (or buy a ticket depending on how the non-profit is structuring the event logistics).
What’s in it for you? You get to experience the networking power of greater personal influence – your ability to create positive changes on the world – simply by leveraging who you know and who knows you! You don’t have to do all the work yourself – you simply need to leverage the full strength of your professional and personal network. This is perhaps my favorite part of the business networking process.
How serving as a Table Captain has helped me professionally
In the past year, I have served as a table captain for two incredible non-profit organizations and powerful fund raising events (listed below.)
As a result of being a Table Captain, I have deepened my relationship with existing connections, created new business networking relationships and aligned myself more closely with powerful women and men in key business, government and community leadership positions.
My company’s image and personal brand have also been strengthened through these affiliations.
Consider these two upcoming Table Captain opportunities:
- YWCA In the Company of Women luncheon – this year on April 6, 2011 with keynote speaker, Lee Woodruff at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, CT. I will host 2 tables, bringing 20 people to this amazing and inspiring event that will attract 1,500 of the top movers and shakers in the state of Connecticut. What a networking opportunity! Learn more about becoming a table captain for this event.
- Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame Induction Dinner – this year on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 from 6-9pm at the CT Convention Center in Hartford, CT. Three amazing women leaders – Isabelle Kelley, Denise L. Nappier, and Patricia M. Wald – will be honored. All three of these women have pioneered “Creating Social Change” in our world. Very Inspiring! Contact the CWHF organization to add your name as a table captain.
Note: Men can and do serve as table captains for both of the above listed fund raising events. It’s a great place to stand out and show your support of women in business and in life.
Your networking GOAL for this week:
Become a Table Captain for a charity fund raising event of a non-profit organization that YOU care about and believe in. Do your homework, find out what’s involved and then say YES! Don’t over-think it.
You have the power and influence to invite people in your business network to join you in raising awareness and much-needed money for worthy non-profit organizations that are making a positive impact in our community.
Serving as a Table Captain is a powerful business networking thing to do. Not only are you showcasing your leadership skills, you are creating opportunities for yourself and others. Your brand, your visibility and the value you bring to the world GROWS!
Once you experience the value of being a table captain, you’ll know exactly why I wrote this networking tip.
- Share your thoughts and experiences in networking on our Facebook page- NetworkingAhead.com/facebook
