<span style="color: #000000;">Here it is, mid-March (Pi Day today because it is 3.14) and I haven't been to a single networking event this year. Not a one. I did got to a panel presentation yesterday, but that wasn't a networking event. </span>

<span style="color: #000000;">Now, I believe in networking and in networking events. It's important to meet people in person, and form relationships. It's good to get out. <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">So the question is not whether to network but where and how.</span></strong></span>

<span style="color: #000000;">Here are some factors in deciding:</span>

<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Who is going.</strong> Is there a good chance that you will meet prospective clients, or good resources or just fun people? Is it going to be lots of people you already know? Will it give you a chance to reconnect? You should have a goal in mind when networking. If not, you are just attending an event.</span>

<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Where and when is it</strong>. Is it convenient to attend this event? Will there be parking if I have to drive or is it near a Metro stop? How long will it take to get there? Is it at the crack of dawn or in the evening?</span>

<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Cost.</strong> Some events are free and those you can decide on based on the two factors above, but some events are costly. For example, I got an event invitation for something that is $49. And it is a breakfast presentation. To me, that is a lot of $$. Will the cost cover anything other than networking--a presentation or a meal? There's one group I know that gives a percentage of the cost to charity, so there is a feel-good/do-good aspect to paying.</span>

<span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Plenty of notice/time to RSVP.</strong> Sometimes you don't have enough notice (as I am writing this I got an invitation for something tomorrow night--sorry, I already committed to something else). Sometimes you have to RSVP far in advance. </span>

<span style="color: #000000;">What are your reasons to attend or not attend an event? I would love to hear what makes it or breaks it for you in the comments.</span>