Career Kuel Thought Leader: Gayle Petrillo
Networking events for women over 50 can feel exhausting before they even begin, but showing up anyway can lead to meaningful connection and unexpected opportunity.
Have you ever had an event on your calendar and when the day arrives you just don’t want to go? You’ve paid in advance, you’ve cleared your appointment book and yet, your mood just isn’t into it.
A friend and leader of a women’s networking group has invited me many times to attend her organization’s luncheons, mixers, conferences, etc. In the past I’ve had conflicts and been unable to attend. Finally, a full day’s event opportunity presented itself weeks prior, and I registered.
Options And Emotions:
The morning of the event, I just didn’t feel it – didn’t feel like going; didn’t feel like networking; didn’t feel like sitting; didn’t feel like listening.
I woke up early, had a leisurely breakfast as I weighed my options and emotions. I decided I just couldn’t disappoint this lovely woman who had reached out so many times.
I dilly-dallied, sipping tea, taking a shower, getting dressed, twice, after deciding the first option just didn’t ‘feel right’ and putting on my makeup. I got in the car and drove 45 minutes to the location. The parking lot was under construction and it took me two rounds through the lot until I found an open spot and again thought, “I could just turn around.”
After walking too many steps in heels, I walked through the conference center doors and was greeted with a warm hug and enthusiastic ‘welcome’ by a long-time colleague/friend. She said she was so pleased to see me, it would be a great event!
How Networking Events For Women Over 50 Create Unexpected Opportunities:
As I entered the room, I saw at least 10 more gals I knew. Hugs were again exchanged. I sat next to one gal and we caught up as others entered the room. Another gal who coincidentally I had a coffee scheduled with the very next week, sat next to me.
We left our belongings and went into the exhibit hall. Once again, there were so many gals I knew, many of whom I hadn’t seen in quite a while, and we were delighted to reconnect. Back into the main room each guest was requested to introduce themselves, and a delicious lunch buffet with many options for all discerning tastes was served.
And then the keynoter addressed our group. She was energized, spoke from her heart, no notes – no PowerPoint. She shared her stories, with pointed references to business, homelife, juggling and balancing. Her speaking truly spoke to me. Her stories resonated, deeply. I was fully engaged.
At the conclusion of the event, several women I had known and whom I just met asked me more about my story, business cards were exchanged and coffee dates scheduled. And, I sold the books I had hesitantly carried in with me.
Don’t Miss What Awaits, The Value Of Showing Up:
What a successful day! And, I almost didn’t go! I would have missed an amazing opportunity to connect and reconnect with some truly amazing business women in my community. I took notes that will serve me well in the coming weeks and months.
I will be less hesitant to skip the next opportunity presented to me. We never know what awaits beyond. Don’t miss your next opportunity!
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About the Author:
Gayle Petrillo is President of First Impressions, Image Consulting. Gayle is an image consultant working with both businesses and individuals. Her services include: customer service training; team building skills; secret shopper services; gossip avoidance techniques; closet analysis; wardrobe transformations, personal shopping; employment coaching; and presentation skills.
