YOUR AD HERE »

Young professionals weigh in: Bringing networking back to mixers

Lyndsay Bryant
TRYP member

We all know why people move to Lake Tahoe: plentiful outdoor activities, breathtaking views, and fantastic weather, at least in my opinion, just to name a few. Just the same, we know that it can be difficult to get a foothold and make a living. For those professionals of any age, not just young, who are looking to move up in their field, start a new career, or start or grow their own business, it is vital to build relationships and take advantage of networking opportunities.

We are lucky to live in a town that is involved in its nonprofits and businesses, but it can be overwhelming to try and attend every fundraiser, mixer or other community event. As a small business owner of Lake Tahoe Sitters Child Care and Lake Tahoe Boat Rides charter tours as well as an active real estate agent at Red Door Previews, I take every opportunity I can to network and build relationships. However, I have found, as I’m sure many have, that it can be easy to forget about the networking component when attending mixers and instead take the opportunity to enjoy a drink and relax after a long day of work.

With many networking options every month in South Lake Tahoe, it is important to make the most of your time at each event. Always have a supply of business cards on you as well as a pen. When you trade cards with someone, make pertinent notes on the back of the card after your conversation ends. Make a point to talk to at least three new people at every event and find something unique to remember about them or their business. When you see them at the next event, mixer, or out in the community, make a point to show that you remember who they are and what they do. After the event, immediately add your new contacts to your database and make a follow up phone call or send an email. Many of you reading this know these tips, but it seems that as of late, we don’t see residents taking advantage of these opportunities.



Keep these tips in mind, engage in your community, and come introduce yourself at the next community functions. The Tahoe Regional Young Professionals will be holding a fundraiser at Kahle community center on Aug. 17 as well as a speed networking mixer in September. Or meet with the Lake Tahoe South Shore Chamber of Commerce members at the next Business After Hours Mixer on Aug. 21.

— Lyndsay Bryant is a member Tahoe Regional Young Professionals. She owns Lake Tahoe Sitters and Lake Tahoe Boat Rides and is a real estate agent for Red Door Previews.


Support Local Journalism

Support Local Journalism

Readers around the Lake Tahoe Basin and beyond make the Tahoe Tribune's work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.

Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.

Your donation will help us continue to cover COVID-19 and our other vital local news.