IT Insight: Expand your network
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has left most of us now with less face-to-face, in-person interaction with others. We are experiencing less interaction overall and that is further complicated by mask wearing. Though social distancing is the safest route for our well-being, long-term social isolation can take its toll on remote workers. This new “normal” begs for differentiators in communication and social interaction, even for those in high tech.
Aside from our daily remote work environment, what better way to socialize than through the many virtual events and meet-ups happening online? The opportunities to join a new group outside of the workplace are limitless. Meeting new friends and joining groups of interest allows for a sense of community and belonging that cannot be replaced by the phone, messaging or email.
A great resource for online tech events is the NH Tech Alliance. (www.nhtechalliance.org). This statewide association is your passport to technology in NH, “from start-ups to leaders in the global economy.” Their Calendar of Events is updated continually with amazing opportunities to network, learn and have fun.
On Feb. 2 at 11 a.m., you can join the NH Tech Alliance for TechEconomy 2021, a vibrant discussion and analysis of what the new year has in store for New Hampshire’s tech economy. Panelists are Brian Gottlob, Director, NH Economic and Labor Market Information Bureau, and Scott Chamberlin, Senior Vice President at Cambridge Trust.
For some true fun and engagement with your peers, log in to the eBrew from 5 to 6 p.m. on Feb. 3. Since 1999, the ebrew is NH’s premier creative/technical networking event. It is here you will meet peers, share stories and opportunities, and relax after work. Utilizing an innovative new platform, hundreds can be online but small groups mix and mingle. This is similar to in-person networking with themed tables available for a variety of topics. The eBrew is a sure bet for your Winter doldrums. BYOB!
“You just need to be more confident.” A phrase that every woman (and man) can agree with, but few know how to do.
What does confidence look like? How do we “be more confident” in difficult and complex situations? Is it possible to exude confidence even when we’re nervous or uncertain? The Kick-ass Confidence Workshop answers these questions and dozens more through stories, statistics, practical examples and laughter. Your confidence is your choice and this workshop will show you how to go from knocked down to standing tall in any situation. Join Julie Holmes on Feb. 10 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. for the TechWomen/TechGirls Power Breakfast: Kickass Confidence for Women.
The NH Tech Alliance Human Resources Exchange features experienced professionals as speakers who offer valuable and practical advice on issues important to workplaces of all types and sizes. The virtual workplace is often one full of security issues. Join JP Harris of Sheehan Phinney on Feb. 10 from 8:15 to 9:30 a.m. for the HR Exchange: Avoiding and Responding to Data Breach Issues with Remote Workers. Now is an opportune time to evaluate your company’s risk and vulnerability with your remote employees. An excellent resource on the technical side is your IT Specialist or Managed Service Provider. See my previous articles at www.seacoastonline.com.
I further recommend looking into virtual events offered via your Chamber of Commerce and technology groups such as MA High Tech, Boston Young Professionals Network and online users groups for applications you are using or interested in such as Java, Office 365, AWS, Arduino and more. Expand your network. Just google events and go!
JoAnn Hodgdon is vice president and co-founder of Portsmouth Computer Group (PCGiT) with her husband David. PCG provides comprehensive managed IT services, business continuity, security, cloud computing and Virtual CIO services to their clients. You may reach her at joann@pcgit.com or at www.pcgit.com.
