The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce #WalktoWashington is finally back! After a four-year hiatus, this much-anticipated event is making its return in a big way, bringing together over 900 guests, including business leaders, elected officials, key figures in academia, and nonprofit executives from across New Jersey.
We at Lenox Consulting and Oasis Media couldn’t be more excited to be attending, reconnecting with old friends, and making new ones as we share our “Local Experience and Global Reach”—helping clients connect, engage, and activate audiences through comprehensive communications solutions that inspire action and achieve goals.
To make the most of this unique networking opportunity, here are eight tips to help you maximize your Walk to Washington experience:
1. Fuel Up
Start your day right with a solid breakfast, courtesy of our friends at TAPinto Newark, who are sponsoring this year’s pre-train event. Networking is a marathon, not a sprint, and you’ll need the energy to keep moving, talking, and making connections throughout the day.
2. Do Your Research & Plan Your Conversations
While some of the best networking happens spontaneously, it doesn’t hurt to think ahead. Identify key people you’d like to “bump into” and prepare some conversation starters. A little bit of research can go a long way in making your interactions more meaningful.
3. Have Your Pitch Ready
If you’re going to “complete” the Walk to Washington—meaning you’ll be traversing the entire train—you’ll have to move quickly. Practice your elevator pitch (or, in this case, your train car pitch) so you can introduce yourself effectively, make an impression, and keep moving.
4. Accept That Not Every Conversation Leads to a Sale
Not every interaction will result in an immediate business opportunity—and that’s okay! Networking is about building relationships, and you never know where a simple conversation today might lead to in the future.
5. Take Advantage of the Congressional Reception
The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce has worked tirelessly to put together an incredible Congressional reception at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C. While there will be no shortage of other events happening around the Walk to Washington, be sure to carve out time for this opportunity to connect with key decision-makers in an ideal networking environment.
6. Understand Boundaries
Navigating the train can be tricky, with narrow aisles and lots of movement. While close talking is inevitable, most people still appreciate personal space. Respect those boundaries—no one enjoys networking with someone who’s way too close. Minty fresh breath also helps- so find me, and I’ll share one of my Lenox Consulting branded mints!
7. Always Maintain Professional Decorum
The overall train trip, reception, and after-hour events make this a unique long two-day networking event. It is important to pace yourself and to bring plenty of business cards. Most importantly – always conduct yourself in a professional manner. First-time positive impressions will win the day!
8. Follow Up
The real value of networking comes after the event. The connections you make during the Walk to Washington should be nurtured beyond the train ride home. Follow up with an email, LinkedIn message, or a phone call to continue the conversation and solidify those new relationships.
BONUS TIP: Wear comfortable shoes!
We can’t wait to see you on the train later this week.
