Q. How do the Rapid Coktail Mixers work?
A. You start by checking in and enjoying our delicious appetizers and grab a cocktail. Then you’re off to visit our sponsor tables and mingle while enjoying the food and music. The cocktail party lasts from 7:30-8:30pm. You do not have to participate in the networking portion of the evening and can meet people on your own or have us introduce you! Our staff will do personal introductions and it helps to break the ice.
Around 8:30PM once everyone is checked-in, we start the 2-3 Minute rotations. You'll talk with one person for a few minutes, we'll ring a bell, then it's off to the next person. These events have grown and we often need 2 shorter rounds to accommodate all our guests. If you come late we do not guarantee that you can participate in the Mixer sessions
Please add your business cards in our win Prizes container to win great prizes donated from our sponsors. You and your company are welcome to donate any product or services to get exposure at the event.
Q. How many people will I meet?
A. At a Rapid Cocktail Mixer you have the opportunity to meet tons of new contacts during the entire evening. During a typical mixer session you will Typically meet 20-30 people of the opposite sex depending (and you can meet friends of the same sex too! This all depends on your goals for the evening. Our staff will also do personal introductions…just ask!
Q. How will I stay in contact with the people I meet? Do you send us matches or phone #’s?
A. Since this event offers the opportunity for you to meet so many people, it would be impossible to match you with everyone you meet! This is where your networking and social skills come into play. You must exchange information with business cards, or you can use the note pads and pens provided at the event. The BEST way to stay connected is to JOIN our Rapid Resource Directory where you can post your business and get massive exposure. Simply add your business listing with your photo and contact information and you can inform people you are on our site to make it easy to connect again. We guarantee you will get many new leads for your business and social life. Check it out in our Resource Directory area.
Q. What is the age range of those who attend?
A. These events are open to all age groups and we find the average age is between 30-50. You never know who you could meet since these events are for building community, making new friends and creating new business contacts. Stay open and bring friends! We have had many people hook up for business, friendship and dates…in all age ranges. You never know what magic can happen!.
Q. I can tell immediately if I do not want to network with someone. Do I still have to talk with him/her?
A. The rotations are only 2-3 minutes for this reason. If you don't want to go connect with the person, be professional and kind, chat briefly and when the bell rings move on. Being considerate of everyone helps other people feel comfortable to meet you. Do not judge people just on appearance. Remember, this person could be a good friend or business prospect . . . stay open and let go of judgments!
Q. Can you offer some RAPID MIXER TIPS:What kinds of questions should I ask?
A. The people who have the best experience at this event keep the following tips in mind:
(1) Dress for success! A first impression is a lasting one. (We recommend NO jeans or sneakers!)
(2) Be open to meeting everyone. You never know who you will meet... there is potential for everything from business partnerships to dates, to friendships. Also, remember that the person across from you might not relate to you, but his/her best friend may be perfect for you in business or for friendship.
(3) Prepare a good one minute pitch on yourself and your work.
(4) Prepare a few questions you might ask such as:
·What excites you about your work and your life?
·What are you passionate about in general?
·When you have time off, what is your favorite thing to do?
·Who are your mentors and role models in life?
·What contacts can we share to support each other?
(5) Have Fun! This is a unique experience that will allow you to practice meeting a variety of different people in a short amount of time. Bring business cards to exchange!
Q. I've contacted my matches, but haven't back - what do I do?
A. We suggest taking notes on business cards to remember what you might have discussed with the folks you met. We all have good intentions to remember and little notes can spark the connection and help build the rapport when you follow up. Create a list of the people you have met and Email or contact them within a few days.
Q. Any "tips" to help me have a great experience?
A. Of course! First, be open to meeting everyone. Second, be a good listener and ask interesting questions. Third Keep an open mind and don't get attached to the results. Finally, have fun!
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