Networking

Of course I’ll go, it’s something new

And definitely time my business grew

The event is free so that’s a plus

Networking? Don’t understand the fuss

I’m no shrinking violet, or so I’m told

So what’s the problem for one so bold?

New cards, nice suit and business head

I’m ready for action… what’s that you said?

No, it’s my first, of many I hope

It won’t be easy but I’m sure I’ll cope

Dam and blast it where’s the map?

Not yet a panic, just a bit of a flap

OK I’m not early, but not that late

Just remember it’s not a date

No-one is waiting just for you

But, oh my God, what do I do?

With a beating heart of increasing pace

I scan the room for a familiar face

I’m on my own, there’s no other way

I’ll just have to think of something to say

I approach a group deep in conversation

But stop in my tracks as the topic’s inflation

Deciding I need some time to think

I head for the table to have a drink

I grab a water and down it in one

Desperately fighting the urge to run

Group number two looks a better bet

Just need to do it, no time to vet

‘Do you mind if I join you?’ I say to be nice

It does the trick and breaks the ice

‘My name is Jan’ one says with a smile

Is this your first event in a while?

‘Yes’ I say, ‘well to tell the truth.

First event ever, shaky hand’s the proof.’

‘Only my second so I feel your pain.

But little to lose and lots to gain’

Her words of encouragement are all I need

I join the group and am soon up to speed

Explaining the work of a freelance translator

I discover a client who may need me later

Cards are exchanged and it’s time to move on

Somehow I no longer feel so forlorn

It certainly wasn’t as easy as expected

But a couple more and I could have this perfected.