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🙊 Hi from TechWalk: Politics, Religion, Racism, Divorce, Boasts & Gossip

Are some topics completely off-limits for an initial networking conversation?

Author

Christine Farrier Rosemin
March 18, 2024

Welcome to the weekly and as yet un-named newsletter from TechWalk. We are a networking community for Tech and SaaS professionals that offers weekly walks hosted by industry experts and interesting individuals.

At TechWalk, we are focused on building a community that is friendly, accessible, and welcoming, where you can show up in sneakers and sweatpants, or whatever your vibe, and be your authentic self. I would guess this approach has been a key factor in our continued growth. But what happens if you are strolling down the park path with your designated walking partner, and the conversation takes a turn into awkward topic territory? My recommendation for TechWalk, or any professional networking situation for that matter (especially happy hour type events): follow your gut. Depending on the day, you might decide to quickly steer the convo into a less controversial arena or let it play out, and either option is totally fine.

Networking for tech professionals is evolving beyond traditional conference settings, and now includes diverse activities like a comedy shows, running clubs, spin classes, and a collage-making workshop. All of which are helping to usher in a new era of what it means to network and build your community. So if you find yourself navigating sensitive topics, here are a few recommendations to help ensure you and your new connection make it to a second conversation:

  1. Listen Actively: If a controversial topic comes up, listen with the intention to understand, not to respond. This helps in creating a respectful environment where all parties feel heard.

  2. Acknowledge Sensitivity: Recognize the potential for discomfort and acknowledge it. A simple statement like "I understand this topic can be quite personal" can go a long way in maintaining a respectful dialogue.

  3. Seek Common Ground: Instead of focusing on areas of disagreement, try to find commonalities. This can help in steering the conversation towards a more positive and productive direction.

  4. Establish Boundaries: It’s perfectly acceptable to set boundaries. If you feel a topic is too sensitive or inappropriate, express that thought. Try out “Let’s save this conversation for another time” or “Let’s agree to disagree”

What's your approach to handle awkward networking conversation?

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And now, moving on to safer territory…

TechWalk Announcements

Celebrate International Happiness Day with a TechWalk as we welcome three new Co-Hosts on 3/20 to share their expertise and insights.

Wondering how to get the conversation started with our Co-Hosts? Keep reading to discover some topics that they are interested in discussing. Pro tip: Reach out via Linkedin in advance of the walk to introduce yourself.

  • Lisa Fei, Founder, Clarity App, (hiring a Marketing Intern) wants to talk about the nuances of entrepreneurship for women, a dream networking event hosted by ten of the world’s self-made billionaires, and the conviction required to be a tech founder.

  • Lindsay Browning, Mentor, Founders Boost, Founder, D11 Ventures and Investor, 37 Angels - is ready to discuss mapping out a plan for your career progression, developing a distinctive leadership style, tech sales and The Fourth Wing

  • Tijana Buric, Founder, Career Alchemist - has lots of thoughts about building teams, personal growth, pitching a business four days before giving birth to her daughter

#Fintech people unite. Have you already started crafting your itinerary for NYC FinTech Week hosted by Empire Startups? We’ve officially thrown our hat in the ring with a special edition FINTechWalk that will be hosted by a roster of special guests including Lindsay Hemings (JustWorks) and Cindy Rentala (Rise First). Last year’s walk welcomed over 200 registrants. Interested in joining us as a Co-Host or sponsor? Drop a line to [email protected] 

Our registrants thus far are joining from: Capital One, Kay.ai, Fenway Summer, Harvard University, MoneyStack, Brico, Rainforest, Splitwise, Impression Ventures, Series, Obvious Ventures, NYU, Sweet, Novo, CiNKO, and many more!

It’s official - we are live on the West Coast. TechWalk Silicon Valley is launching on April 17th with our first walk at the Shoreline at Mountain View. Meet our Chapter Director Rupa Bhagwat, graduate of Northwestern’s Masters of Engineering Management program and Product Manager at Parker Hannifin, and tell her what you love about TechWalks as she’s crafting the in-person experience for our West Coast community members

Know someone who lives or works in the Silicon Valley area who could use a walk? Invite them to participate.

TechWalk in the News

Thank you Shelly Lombard for helping us to spread the word about TechWalk. Visit the latest edition of the SCHMOOZE newsletter to read about the big networking mistakes I made early in my career and how I’m hoping TechWalk will be able to help others. Do you have an interesting TechWalk story that we can share in upcoming newsletters and podcasts? Please reach out to [email protected] to be featured in our press and publicity campaigns.

Upcoming TechWalk Schedule

Congrats on reaching the end of this newsletter. If you would like information on sponsoring our next edition, being a featured member, or joining a future walk as a Co-Host, simply contact us at [email protected]

Happy Walking,

Christine Farrier Rosemin

Founder