Did you know? Many people find employment opportunities through a network of people they know. It is well documented that professional networking is an important investment in time when beginning a career and in growing a career.

What is Networking and Why Should you Network?

Networking allows people to establish and nurture long-term relationships that are mutually beneficial. That is, the relationship benefits both people involved. Networking is also a great way to:

• learn about career options
• stay up-to-date on changes within a particular industry
• guide people in developing skills, and
• potentially lead to job opportunities.

Traditional networking does present some challenges though. It requires some confidence, the ability to articulate one’s thoughts and respond appropriately to social cues and nuances in communication. Networking often requires actively listening to another person and then responding spontaneously.

For adults on the autism spectrum, networking can sometimes feel counter-intuitive and extremely challenging as many autistics can be challenged by social communication and have difficulty understanding the non-verbal social cues that influence day-to-day interactions. But that doesn’t mean you have to be left out.

Join us for a Speed Networking session!

Thursday, September 12, 2023

11:00 – Noon

Online via Sinneave Connects

Attendees will learn all about networking and its benefits and connect with other neurodivergent professionals and job seekers to practice and refine your networking skills. Through a short presentation, a structured activity and discussion, participants will gain insight into the concept of professional networking, including WHAT it is, and HOW and WHERE to network.

ThisFREE, one-hour session will take place on Sinneave Connects, our online learning portal.

To access the virtual link, you will need a free Sinneave Connects account. If you already have one, just log in to the portal as usual. If you are not yet registered, it’s easy. When you click the button below it will direct you to the portal.

1. Pick a username
2. Pick a password (don’t forget to save it somewhere for next time!)
3. Select “Register”
4. Choose the “Speed Networking 101″ course and enroll to access the virtual link.

Speed Networking 101 – October 12 

About the Presenter: Ian Humphreys is an Employment Advisor and neurodivergent self-advocate, who leads the Sinneave Employment Team–a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journey towards meaningful employment and career success.

If you have any questions about this session, or need help navigating Sinneave Connects, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!

Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just drop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!

P.S. The quick access button to Sinneave Connects is on the upper right corner of our Homepage.