Meet with drinks

Wind down with some informal networking in Central London or West London every month.

Agenda-based events focus on information delivery and provide opportunities for networking only during coffee breaks or registration. 'Meet with Drinks' is borne out of the need for a freer, more extended opportunity for chat with like-minded marketers, in a relaxed social setting.

Depending on where you live and work, come along between 6pm and 9pm to either the Central London or West London & Heathrow Meet with Drinks. You don't have to attend every month or stay all evening, but many of us do!

Central London

Bernie Emery and other volunteer members of the Central London team, will be on hand to provide introductions and help you mingle.

'Central London

West London & Heathrow

Mocky Khan, West London & Heathrow team leader and his team members will be on hand to introduce new members.

Hammersmith, London

Next event: Visit the CIM website and check the latest date and venue in Greater London

New to networking? Here are a few tips for members to make the most of the event:

I'm not confident enough to network.
Understand that most of the people around you are also feeling awkward. Shy people focus on themselves and falsely believe that everyone is focused on them too. So look around: they're not thinking about you, they're thinking about themselves! Get a drink or some food (not both at once!) and relax. Ask people their advice on a sticky situation in your job - people love to offer help and you never know you might find a useful marketing mentor.
You already know all about you.
Don't just talk about yourself and what you do. Ask open questions (such as 'What's your involvement in marketing?', 'How did you hear about Meet with Drinks?', 'Why did you decide to come?' or 'What do you think of CIM events?') when you first meet someone to get them to talk about themselves. Make them the centre of your attention. Simply practise describing what you do in 30 seconds or less. If people want to know more they'll ask.
Make the most of the variety of attendees.
Get there early before the main crowd turns up and meet the organisers Louisa, Bernie and Tracey. They can help you mingle. Strike up a conversation with a few people and build your confidence slowly. But don't stay with one person all evening - move on after 10 or 15 minutes. You could say something like 'It's been really interesting talking to you <name> but I'd better pretend I'm interested in everyone else as well. Enjoy your evening'.
Listen to discussions before you jump in.
Joining a new group can be tricky particularly if they are engrossed in heated debate! Get used to standing on your own and survey the room. Identify a group you want to join but get a feel for their conversation first. Stand near them, show you're listening with body language and questions, then contribute your own comments when it seems right.