What comes to mind when you think of traditional networking? For many, it’s a dull and uninspiring experience—stale events in generic conference rooms that lack energy and excitement.
Since 2013, MYP has been revolutionising what networking looks like for young professionals in our city. No more impersonal name badges or discreetly checking the time, hoping for a natural opportunity to leave.
Instead, we’re creating spaces where genuine connections happen naturally – whether that’s over padel sessions, supper clubs or inspiring talks from industry leaders who really have something interesting to say.
Our community of young professionals in Manchester is only growing – so maybe it’s time you joined us?
Let’s break down some networking myths
When it comes to networking, there are some outdated assumptions that need challenging, because they’re certainly not true for our events. Let’s tackle some of the most common myths and show you exactly how MYP is rewriting what networking looks like.
Myth #1: Networking happens in stuffy conference venues with terrible lighting and even worse coffee
Who says professional connections can’t be made over a flat white at Bondi Bowls or during a padel session at Pure Padel? We choose vibrant venues that show off the best of what Manchester has to offer young professionals.
After all, it’s really not rocket science that people should want to be where their networking events are hosted.
Myth #2: It’s all about collecting business cards and making quick sales pitches
Our events focus on creating genuine conversations and lasting relationships. Whether you’re bonding over shared plates at our Supper Club or discussing industry trends during a run club, the emphasis is on authentic connection, not transactional conversation.
Of course, broadening your business connections can often lead to exciting professional opportunities down the line – but that can only happen naturally when you focus on making real connections first.
Myth #3: You’ll only end up meeting people from your own industry
Gone are the days of seeing the same set of faces at the same old industry-specific events.
Our community brings together professionals from every sector imaginable. Just recently, after a talk at Alliance Manchester Business School, MBA students attended one of our events and connected with professionals they’d never normally cross paths with – from tech entrepreneurs to legal professionals.
These cross-industry connections are what make our network unique.
Myth #4: Networking events are formal, rigid and honestly quite boring
Try telling that to the group at our breakfast events at dining hotspots across the city or our Sip & Paint evenings. Our events are designed to be enjoyable first, with networking as the natural by-product of shared experiences.
Even the speakers we choose at our career-focused events keep things engaging and interactive – from social media experts sharing industry insights over breakfast at Albert’s Schloss to marketing masterclasses at AMBS.
Take a look at what we’ve got lined up for our upcoming events if you’re curious. Nothing ‘boring’ on there.
Myth #5: You need to be an extrovert to be any good at networking
Our varied event formats mean that there’s something for everyone. If you prefer smaller groups our intimate Supper Clubs could be perfect for you. More comfortable with activity-based networking? Join our Run Club or wellness sessions. We create environments where both introverts and extroverts can thrive.
However, if you’re simply nervous about networking at any size event – don’t be. We create a welcoming environment with friendly faces who remember exactly what it’s like to walk into their first networking event.
Check out our networking tips if you need some extra tactics and encouragement to get you through the door.
Myth #6: You need to have years of experience to have anything valuable to contribute
Whether you’re three months or ten years into your career, you bring unique insights to the table. Our most interesting conversations often happen when professionals at different stages share their experiences.
Plus, with our career-focused events with speakers from some of Manchester’s biggest businesses like tech giant Hitachi Solutions or law firm Myerson Solicitor, you can discover what different industries and roles are really like, straight from the people who know them best.
Myth #7: “Networking Outside Your Workplace Isn’t Encouraged”
Some people may feel hesitant about networking outside of their workplace, but the most progressive businesses see it as a valuable opportunity. They actively encourage their teams to build meaningful connections across the city.
In fact, many of our members join us with colleagues or were introduced to MYP through their workplace. Successful businesses understand that engaging with Manchester’s wider professional community helps their teams grow and thrive.
Good things come from MYP’s events
Want to know what our new era of networking can look like?
Alice, a member of the MYP community, met the MBA recruitment team at The Alchemist in March 2024 at a Supper Club, which inspired her to visit Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS).
She applied for the MYP AMBS scholarship worth £24,000, meanwhile the admissions team got in touch and due to her application, they suggested she applied for the “outstanding future female leaders” full scholarship. To which Alice did, and she was successful in securing a full scholarship worth £48,000!
Alice commented: “I’m delighted and very grateful for that initial connection at MYP Supper Club and we are excited to tell more about my journey with the MYP Community in the new year!”
Those natural conversations ultimately inspired her successful application to their MBA programme.
It’s exactly the kind of story we love at MYP – authentic conversations leading to exciting opportunities, all starting with a simple decision to try something new.
Join the new era of networking
If you’ve been holding back from professional networking because of outdated perceptions, it might be time to revisit the idea. What MYP stands for is building genuine connections with like-minded professionals in settings where you can truly be yourself.
Sound interesting? MYP could be for you.
Whether you’re a foodie, fitness enthusiast or are simply curious to meet new people, there’s a place for you in the MYP community. Join us at one of our upcoming networking events and experience it for yourself.
MYP’s Careers Partner is Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), a globally recognised institution.
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