As a full-time employee of Image Cog, my boss has required me to join a networking chapter in order to better facilitate relations with other businesses and ultimately generate a two-way street of clients for both us and them. After multiple setbacks and mishaps, I finally engaged in an activity I never foresaw myself doing at this point in my life. If you’re thinking “sex,” then you are half right.

I was able to attend my very first networking meeting today. Severely unprepared and underdressed in my black button-down short-sleeved shirt and thigh-hugging black jeans I bought from Ginza in Tokyo, I made a fool of myself not having my business cards. Also, in a matter of time, I realized that I should have distinctly knew what it is that I, in the company, do, regardless of whether I own it or not. I was tastefully singled out by the man who had claimed me as he guest, referring to me as a “naughty boy” for not being properly equipped. I chuckled with everyone else; what else could I do. I didn’t think not bringing my business cards would be a big deal because I was just going to be visiting anyway. I also had to rework my thirty-second overview of how I explained the work that Image Cog does on the whole because there is already someone in the chapter who does websites and writing; having more than one individual in the same occupation in the same chapter for this particular organization is prohibited.

I was welcomed warmly enough, but having current members bringing in guests is a big deal. Seeing no one in the cafe yet again at 7AM, I stood outside until I was scooped up by someone who was coming in at the same time I was. He introduced himself, handed me his card, asked me twice if I was sure I didn’t have a business card, and was almost giddy over the fact that I should say that I am his guest. Good thing he did because a few members asked me who invited me, obliging me to recite his name with a bit of disdain. I truly felt like I was set up, but that’s how the business world works right?

The atmosphere was informal, yet professional, which was my expectation from the start when I chose this meeting in the first place. They did make a point to make everyone feel welcome. It’s mandatory to the extent of paying money out of your pocket that you have at least a tip or two for one of the members there, as the whole idea is to network and exchange business. I felt sorely out of place for the most part. The men were tall, dressed sharply in suit and tie, and generally close to middle-aged if not already there, while many of the women were married, confident, and also around middle-aged. Everyone was experienced in their occupation to some extent, and I just felt like some little kid everyone was laughing at behind their business facades.

Overall, it was a very stressful experience…To be honest, I’m having mixed feelings about the whole thing. Everyone I spoke to was kind to me, but at the same time there’s no one in my age bracket and with similar lacking aptitude. I know that this is good for me, but everyone is wise and tuned into the business culture while I’m fresh out of college. I do plan on having another visit, and maybe things will be different that time around. Right now though, I’m just concerned with whether I can snag an available occupation that won’t ’step on anyone’s toes.’

Just in case anyone is highly amused by the header image, I shopped it. This meme never gets old when used for good instead of evil.

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