A simple definition of networking is the exchange of information and ideas among people with a common profession or special interest, usually in an informal social setting. Networking is vitally important in the business events industry particularly through the pandemic when all face-to-face interaction ceased. For many people, the pandemic also changed the value we place on time.
Now, as we open up and begin holding face-to-face meetings we face so many competing interests for our time: work, hobbies, friends, and family. It is a challenge to carve out time to go to a networking event for business purposes. I can do this by hopping on Zoom for 30 minutes instead of getting dressed and commuting to some other destination, right? Well, networking over Zoom has it’s place but it can’t replace face-to-face networking where you can interact with people on a different level and just have plain fun! That’s why I hope you will join me at our “Spring Back to Business” event, held jointly with MPI Potomac, at the Omni Shoreham, 4-6pm on Thursday, May 26. I promise it will be a lot more fun than a Zoom call.
On May 3, a group of PCMA Capital Chapter Volunteers, coordinated by our Community Service Committee, participated in “Joyful Bagging” for Martha’s Table. During these times, we should not forget how many are struggling and how a bag of vegetables, fruit, and pantry items can mean so much to someone. Giving back to the community has always been a cornerstone of the Chapter and I am proud we continue to keep community service central to our values.
Lastly, on May 11 we will be holding a virtual Lunch and Learn on “The RFP of the Future.” There’s no denying business has changed. There are a host of new contract terms and we are still struggling with labor, supply chain, and service issues. In many cases, both the planner and supplier now have different expectations and pressure points. Sponsored by Visit Raleigh, I hope you will join me in what is sure to be a lively discussion.
As I mentioned earlier, I believe the value of time has changed for many of us. We choose much more carefully what time we give to certain activities. As I type this message, I am about to begin a busy day onsite for one of my meetings. It’s very early and the hustle and bustle is yet to start. Writing this message has energized me for the day ahead and has reminded me of how volunteering and networking in this industry is so valuable to your career. I hope to see many of you at one of our events this month!
Marcus Eng, CMP, DES | 2022 PCMA Capital Chapter President
