In every profession, good networking requires an always-on effort.
That’s because networking isn’t just about meeting people. It’s about making meaningful connections. And every place has its own traditions, cultures, and quirks when it comes to meeting, mingling, and finding common ground with others.
Salt Lake City is no different. That’s why we’ve created some handy networking tips for finance, accounting, and HR professionals tailored to this dynamic, unique location.
“One thing many people may not realize about SLC is the strong emphasis on community building,” says Alessandro Cozzi, a Salo business development director in
Salt Lake City.
“Networking here often goes beyond exchanging business cards,” Alessandro explains. “There’s a real focus on developing long-term relationships and actively supporting and promoting each other’s businesses.”
Where can I find networking events in Salt Lake City, UT?
“There’s no place in SLC where people aren’t willing to open up and chat,” says says Danny Memmott, another Salo business development director in Salt Lake City.
Finding networking events in Salt Lake City is easier than you think. Here are some ways you can get started:
- Look for general networking opportunities online. Eventbrite is a great first step. Filter your search for professional networking in Salt Lake City. Meetup is another source for active local executive networking groups.
- Contact Salt Lake City-based networking groups. Here are some excellent organizations for finance, accounting, and HR professionals:
Salt Lake SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management)
Financial Executives International Utah (FEI)
The Salt Lake City CFO Leadership Council
Utah Association of CPAs (UACPA) - Connect with colleges and universities with programs relating to your area of expertise. Reach out to career development and alumni departments at the University of Utah and Salt Lake Community College to get connected as a subject matter expert, mentor, or other professional resource.
- Get creative about potential venues. Seminars, conferences, and conventions are all fine places to network professionally. Meeting people in Salt Lake and greater Utah is often a matter of simply walking out the door. Literally.
“Whether they’re skiing, enjoying the red rock regions, beautiful lakes, salt flats, biking trails, or national forests, Utahns love to be outdoors,” Danny explains.
His colleague Alessandro agrees, adding, “The restaurant and bar scene in Salt Lake City is a vibrant one, too. There is truly something for everyone here.”
Nurturing and growing your network
Making a successful initial connection is only the first step toward learning how to grow your professional network in Salt Lake City.
There’s a lot of strategies that work in creating connections—for great tips on that, check out our article on mastering the art of networking. But the thing all of them have in common, whether you’re in person or online, is engagement. Like people’s posts. Ask questions. Listen more than you speak. Celebrate others’ wins and commiserate about their losses.
- Show gratitude. Thank people whenever you can. If someone shares something on LinkedIn that you found insightful, let them know! If a colleague invites you to an event, thank them for thinking about you.
- Share your excitement. Let people know your interests and passions. Whether it’s a nonprofit you’re involved in, your kid’s school drama department, or a sport you love, talking and posting about what happens in your world shows people what matters to you. And it often leads to deeper connections and even more networking possibilities.
- Follow up. Connect to anyone you meet at virtual or in-person networking events on LinkedIn within 48 hours. Send a personalized message referencing your experiences together to increase the odds of them remembering and reciprocating your energy.
Networking is about putting people first
At Salo, connection is at the heart of everything we do. In our work with clients and consultants, we are continually reminded how people themselves are the greatest asset to any organization. And the same is true for your career. When you put people first, you’ll find ways to create connection, learn more about others, and discover work that is truly meaningful.
About Salo
At Salo, we match expert finance, accounting, HR, and c-level consultants with organizations that need their expertise. Whether you’re looking into consulting as a career option or need interim support, Salo is here for you. Connect with us today.
