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This 45-minute talk (followed by a 15 Q&A) will focus on helping job seekers and career professionals get tangible results from their networking efforts now, while also building a strong, long-term professional network.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- How to craft an elevator pitch when you’re currently job seeking
- What to say in first conversations to create meaningful connections
- Balancing immediate career needs with long-term relationship building
- How to leverage offers for help,even from new contacts
- How to confidently ask for referrals or introductions when appropriate
- Best practices for following up after networking events
This session will give attendees practical scripts, confidence, and a repeatable system to turn every event into an opportunity, while cultivating authentic, lasting connections.
SPEAKER BIO
Dana Alfirevic is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and the founder of Charlotte Networking Knowledge, a vibrant social community and networking group that supports entrepreneurs and professionals in Charlotte. She is committed to making professional networking fun, welcoming, and accessible to all, especially introverts and those who feel anxious or afraid to put themselves out there.
After moving to Charlotte in April 2024 with no job, no network, and no local connections or friends, Dana turned personal challenges into powerful motivation. Having previously rebuilt her network from scratch in both Chicago and Dallas, she knows firsthand the loneliness, insecurity, and self-doubt that can come from starting over in a new city, especially as an introvert. But she also knows the power of community, and how meaningful relationships can transform your career and your life.
In September 2024, she launched Charlotte Networking Knowledge and has since hosted over 60 events in under a year. Her events are known for being creative, inclusive, and engaging. From rooftop happy hours and coworking meetups to boat mixers, networking game nights, open mic comedy shows, cat café events, and even a networking talent show, she always works hard to curate unique and high-value experiences.
Dana believes networking shouldn’t feel intimidating or transactional; it should be fun, exciting, and something you genuinely look forward to.
Dana is also the self-published author of two books: How to Effectively Network for Those Afraid to Put Themselves Out There and Modern Networking Strategies. Both are rooted in her own journey of overcoming social anxiety, and offer practical strategies to help others gain confidence, build relationships, and grow professionally with authenticity and purpose.
In addition to her writing, Dana is also a passionate Networking Coach. She developed a Networking Coaching Bootcamp that provides personalized guidance to help professionals and teams build confidence, improve communication skills, and create meaningful connections.
Whether through events, coaching, or storytelling, Dana’s mission is clear: to help others feel seen, supported, and empowered to create their own opportunities, just like she did.
SPEAKER CONTACT LINKS
Website: https://www.networkingknowledgeandgrowth.com
Social Media Links:
https://www.Facebook.com/Charlottenetworkingknowledge
https://www.Instagram.com/Charlottenetworkingknowledge
Happy to connect with anyone. Feel free to add me on LinkedIn and Instagram.
https://www.Linkedin.com/in/Dana-Alfirevic
https://www.Facebook.com/Charlottenetworkingknowledge
https://www.TikTok.com/@Clt_networking_knowledge
https://www.LinkedIn.com/company/charlotte-networking-knowledge
Modern Networking Strategies To Engage, Connect, and Maintain Professional Relationships in 2025 and Beyond: Practical Steps for Business Owners and Professionals to Build Meaningful Connections: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTB2ZKNM
How to Network Effectively for Those Scared to Put Themselves Out There: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLH821CH