I see this advice frequently in books about networking, and it’s good advice. When at an event, you want to find how you can help the host, meet and greet people or in other small ways look for ways to make the event run smoothly.

I recently had an opportunity to practice this advice in a different way, and it reminded me that there are many ways to act like a host.

I have been asked to speak to a networking group later this month. So not only am I going to be a guest, I’m going to be a special guest. Of course I wanted to promote the event through my newsletter, so I emailed the host for all the particulars. She sent back everything but mentioned that her venue had fallen through. She was looking for a new place, and would I be available to go to DC or Maryland if that was where they ended up.

Okay, I admit it. Enlightened self-interest kicked in big time. I live in Northern Virginia. To get to either DC or Maryland at 6:30 in the evening is just asking to be stuck in rush hour traffic.

I emailed her back and said I knew of some possibilities (which just happened to be closer to me). Would she like me to check on them? Of course, she replied.

I asked for a bit more information (like the expected turnout) and sent off a couple of email requests. I was able to find her a room for the event, and she is in contact with that venue to work out the details. The extra cool part for me was the email I received in thanks, “Juli, I am hoping to be able to pay you something when you speak—though that is not the protocol—but I’m simply greatful for your help and flexibility!! Thank you!”

So my help elevated this event from an unpaid speaking engagement to a paid engagement for me. Everyone wins!

I’d say that counted as acting like a host instead of a guest.

Anyone else have any examples of times you acted as a host and how it worked out for you?

Tags: Giving, Networking, Networking Events, Relationship building, reputation

This entry was posted on Friday, January 8th, 2010 at 10:14 am and is filed under Networking Events. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.