Creative Agencies

Golf

Fishing

Outdoor

Dive

Yoga

Tech

Health & Fitness

Fashion

Skate

Lifestyle

Wake

Surf

Moto & Powersports

Swim

Snow

Bike

Streetwear

Music

Triathlon

Industrial Design Student

Unemployed

Portfolio

My name is Kayla Hayes, and I'm a Carribean American Design student attending the Rhode Island School of design. In my design work, I focus on sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and accessibility.

Co-Founder / CEO

In-person networking in the industries Malakye serves is a great opportunity and can be a lot of fun with the right approach. It’s all about having that calm approach, say no to any thoughts or feelings of anxiety, and get psyched on having casual chats / meeting new people. Developing connections takes time and isn’t something to rush to make happen. Let it develop organically, as they say. Here are some quick tips / things to keep in mind if you have plans to hit live events with work and career in mind. &nbsp;1. Know Your Audience- Research the Industry: Understand the norms, trends, and key players in your industry. Casual industries often have unique cultures and expectations.- Dress Appropriately: While the industry is casual, aim for a polished look that aligns with the company culture. Think smart casual rather than business formal.- Check out the networking section of Malakye.com, what you see there is pretty true to form to how things are IRL. &nbsp;2. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch- Keep It Brief: Have a succinct, engaging summary of who you are, what you do, and what you&#39;re looking for. Don’t go full robot mode on it, but get’er done in a few quick statements. - Show Personality: Let your personality shine through. Casual industries value authenticity and personal connections. “Just be you” is actually a money approach. Most people are cool and those who aren’t, you don’t need to know anyway 😊 &nbsp;3. Engage in Genuine Conversations- Ask Open-Ended Questions: This encourages more in-depth discussions and shows genuine interest in the other person.- Find Common Ground: Identify mutual interests or experiences to build rapport.- Having a curious mindset will help foster good convo and juju. &nbsp;4. Be Authentic and Approachable- Be Yourself: Authenticity is crucial in casual industries. People appreciate genuine interactions.- Show Enthusiasm: Be passionate about your field and express genuine interest in the people you meet.&nbsp;5. Utilize Social Media and Digital Tools- Follow Up Online: Connect with people on Malakye or other industry-specific platforms. If it’s after an event, take the moment to make it personal by bringing something up you’re your convo. - Participate in Online Communities: Join relevant groups and forums to continue building relationships.&nbsp;6. Attend Industry Events and Meetups- Go Where Your Peers Are: Attend industry-specific events, meetups, and conferences. These are prime opportunities to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships.- Volunteer or Speak: Offer to help organize events or speak on topics you’re knowledgeable about. This increases your visibility and credibility.&nbsp;7. Be a Good Listener- Listen More Than You Talk: Pay attention to what others are saying and respond thoughtfully. This shows respect and interest.- Remember Details: Take mental or physical notes about key points from conversations. Mentioning these details later can impress and show attentiveness.&nbsp;8. Have a Business Card or Digital Equivalent- Share Contact Information: Even in casual settings, having a way to easily exchange contact information is valuable. Consider digital business cards for ease.&nbsp;9. Follow Up Thoughtfully- Send a Thank You Note: After meeting someone, send a quick thank-you email or message. Mention something specific from your conversation to personalize it.- Stay in Touch: Periodically reach out to maintain the connection. Share interesting articles, congratulate them on achievements, or invite them to events.&nbsp;10. Be Patient and Persistent- Build Relationships Over Time: Networking is about building long-term relationships, not immediate gains.- Stay Consistent: Regularly attend events and engage with your network. Consistency is key to being remembered and trusted.&nbsp;By combining professionalism with a relaxed, genuine approach, you can effectively network in casual industries and build meaningful, lasting connections.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In-Person Networking in These Casual Industries

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Kayla Hayes is an Industrial Design Student in Towson, Maryland. View their experience, skills and work history on Malakye — the professional network for…

Kayla Hayes — Industrial Design Student — Towson, Maryland

Kayla Hayes — Industrial Design Student — Towson, Maryland

Kayla Hayes

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