It can be tempting to hit “pause” on networking during summer months. People go on vacation and spend more time on recreational activities. Routines can change drastically, especially for parents who shuttle kids to different camps all summer.

The problem with scaling back networking and relationship building is that business doesn’t stop between Memorial Day and Labor Day. In fact, this can be a crucial time for companies during a challenging business and economic climate.

Businesses, nonprofits, and individuals who see the summer season as an opportunity to grow rather than a reason to take a break can create a tremendous advantage by staying engaged. Here are a few reasons why.

Debunking Summer Networking Assumptions

Some people take a break from networking based on the assumption that others are doing the same. Business development and marketing come to a virtual standstill based on the assumption that nobody is paying attention.

If you think about these assumptions logically, you’ll see why area professionals should not take a vacation from networking and relationship building during summer months.

If fewer people are networking, those who are out there making connections are highly engaged and enthusiastic about growing their network and helping others. These are the people you want to meet!

If fewer people attend networking events, you’ll be more visible. You’ll have opportunities to engage in deeper conversations that lead to more meaningful connections and stronger referrals.

Strengthening Relationships

Do you have a current or former client who you haven’t seen in a while? Is there a person you met at a networking event who you never got a chance to meet for coffee?

Summer isn’t just a great time to expand your network. It’s a great time to build a stronger networking foundation by strengthening existing relationships. That could mean reconnecting with someone after a long break, or turning a passive LinkedIn connection to an active relationship and potential referral partner.

Mid-Year Assessment

• What networking events and educational programs have enabled you to strengthen and expand your network?
• What educational programs have provided information that you can apply to your work?
• What upcoming events offer the best opportunities for valuable learning and meeting ideal referral partners?
• How many one-to-one meetings did you have this year?
• When you explain who you are, what you do, and the value you deliver, does it seem to resonate with people you meet?
• Reflect on your approach to networking. Are you listening, asking questions, and looking for opportunities to help others?
• When was the last time you updated your Chamber profile and LinkedIn profile?

Summer is a great time to evaluate your networking strategy and performance in the context of your overall professional and organizational goals. Determine what’s working well, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for the rest of the year.

Stay Engaged. Reap the Rewards.

By all means, go on vacation. Spend time with family. Hit the beach, walk in the park, or just sit outside and read a book. Recharge your batteries. But stay engaged with your network, take advantage of opportunities to make new connections, and use the rest of summer to build momentum for a strong second half of the year!

Check the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber event calendar for networking events and the monthly Membership Orientation, and browse the member directory to find Chamber members who you’d like to meet!