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VIRTUAL SPEED NETWORKING

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Virtual Speed Networking Overview

CARILEC’s traditional Face to Face (F2F) Speed Networking sessions have provided members with tremendous value during our annual conferences over the last decade.  This process provides a level of efficiency for utility leaders, by providing them with a platform to undertake an initial vetting and assessment of offerings which may fulfill their various commercial needs. These sessions have also afforded associate and affiliate members the opportunity to gain access to utility representatives throughout the region within a short space of time.

Virtual speed networking provides huge cost savings and reduces the need to travel all over the Caribbean region or internationally to individual business meetings.  It has been echoed by many members that the speed-networking event is a significant Return on Investment (ROI) to their membership. Therefore, we understand the needs of our members for such an event, especially during these difficult economic times.  During these sessions, Associate, Affiliate and IPP members take the opportunity to introduce their products, services, technologies, and methodologies during a 3-5-minute elevator speech.

*Registrants will receive an email with the event details upon confirmation of payment.

Virtual Speed Networking Tips

Log into Virtual Platform Ahead of Time

Technical difficulties occur at any time and could strike just at the moment that you are scheduled to meet with the Utility’s representative.  CARILEC will be using the Remo Platform to conduct this networking event.  Your log-in details will be sent ahead of your scheduled session, so be sure to sign in beforehand and ensure that your audio and video settings are well-functioning.

 Have your Pitch Ready

During the exercise it is extremely important to be well prepared, efficient and goal oriented.  Practice your thirty (30) minute pitch beforehand.  The pitch should be a concise and quick summary that explains what you do.  It should also mention key elements that make you or your organisation stand out.  Developing a good pitch also entails researching the Utility or organisation to understand their business model and initiatives.

Have your Questions Ready

Prepare the questions in a way that will help you carry out a business goal.  Use the questions as guidelines and be flexible in about what you ask and how you ask them.

Take Notes

Be sure to note the representative’s interests and business goals and how you might help them to achieve those.  Remember, successful people think on paper.

Follow Up

One of the most important aspects of networking is to follow up with the contacts you met during the sessions.  Place a phone call or send an e-mail so that the representative not only gets a more lasting impression of you and your organisation, but understands that you are serious about making a meaningful connection.