Fun(ny) Networking Tips, Always use your Data :>

“Data is as data does!” He sniggers at his wit. I stare at him for a split second before I remember to re-paste the faux smile to my face. I remind myself that this guy is a legitimate genius and I am privileged to be in a conversation with him at this moment in time. He leans in, a habit of his it appears and I feel myself fighting the urge to move back. I slink back slowly, hoping if I move the tiniest bit, ever so slowly like the earth rotating, he won’t notice. “You are the prettiest data lady on the planet,” he half whispers, followed quickly by a nervous snigger. I lift my head and direct my icy grey eyes squarely at him. I can see the panic rise in his expression, and he leans slightly away. I lean in, “Mr. Provst, Your data analysis is clearly flawed. Unless of course, you have seen every data person on the planet.” I stare with my cold eyes for half a minute before leaning away again. I flash him a smile, genuine this time. A winner’s smile. Mr. Genius hastily shakes my hand and retreats.

Networking is not for the faint of heart, especially if you are going it alone. I spent the better part of this year attending two or three a month. I have gathered quite the toolbox of comical maneuvers for surviving these events. Using my data skills I have identified the various personalities and situations commonly found here in the networking jungle, and I am…