There. I said it. 

 

 

But not that awkward conference buffet line or a crowd of strangers at happy hour networking. I’m talking about the exploring a new coffee shop and really getting to know someone type of networking that only happens face-to-face, 1:1, or in small groups. That’s what I really miss.

 

And that’s why I’m reaching out to you today out of the blue First name / Friend. I’m Dara! Thanks for being part of my network on LinkedIn! 

 

Because I’ve been feeling this professional isolation, I’ve been reading A LOT about community building and networking and I found that though there are a lot of professional benefits of having a strong network, it’s also important socially and psychologically.

 

Are you feeling the same about that good kind of networking that fosters genuine connection? If so, I’d love to grab a virtual coffee with you.

 

At the end of the day, humans are social animals and our instinct is to find strength in numbers. We appreciate a small circle of people but need larger circles as well. Our health and happiness are inextricably linked with our connections.

 

 

So whaddya say? Wanna grab a coffee? 

 

I’d love to learn more about you, your work, goals, and passions (or even the best thing you’re reading, watching, or listening to right now).

 

Please add dara@blackwalnutconsulting.com to your safe sender list (not sure how to do that? Here’s some help.) So I don't get lost in the promotions tab (since this is my business email).

 

Here’s what you can expect from me in the future: I’ll only email you about 1-3 times a month max. Why? Because this isn’t a chase, just an invitation to connect. If we find ways to collaborate, yay!, I love collaborating with others, but the purpose of my virtual coffee invitation isn’t really about all that.

 

 

Talk soon,

 

P.S. - The most inspiring articles I’ve read while I was researching networking the past few months aren’t even about networking, they’re about fear, trust, and boredom. Though this one about reducing the “ick” factor is a personal fav too. 

 

If you’re still feeling a bit icky about networking, I encourage you to leave a comment on the articles about fear and boredom, just to practice putting yourself out there a little bit!

P.P.S - If this kind of outreach from me isn’t your cup of coffee tea please unsubscribe at the link below. No hard feelings at all! Thanks for reading this far!