Networking...as young professionals, it's a term we've all heard over and over. Our bosses, colleagues, mentors, parents, etc., are constantly reminding us how important it is to network...but what is networking?

Does going to a luncheon here and there classify as networking? What about keeping your LinkedIn page updated? Why is networking so important? These are all questions I ask myself when it comes to networking, but the truth is I don't really have the answers.

In my four years at Texas Tech University, Networking 101 was never offered as an elective. In fact, when it comes to networking, sometimes I feel like a small fish thrown into a tank of hungry sharks.

A big part of being a member of the McKinney Young Professionals is networking. We dedicate one night a month to networking, as well as other various events throughout the year, but if we aren't networking the right way, neither one of us are getting the full benefit of this organization.

"How to Network" is our focus this month. Instead of having our monthly after hours at a local venue, we will be meeting at the McKinney Chamber for a night of networking. Our guest speaker will cover the basic do's and don'ts and at the end of the night you will be given the opportunity to practice your new skills.

I hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to improve your networking skills. If you are unable to attend this event, please remember to always check the Chamber web site for "After Hour" locations and other events.

As always, I hope this letter finds each one of you doing well and prospering in your business endeavors. I look forward to seeing you and your coworkers at our next event.

Taylor White, Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow

MYP Chairman 2012

Three of our Chamber members who have "branded" themselves through networking will be here to share their most successful methods of giving a commercial about their business and networking.  How do you network?  What do you hope to accomplish when you network?  Don't forget plenty of business cards! Appetizers provided by Jason's Deli. Click to view event flyer

Thursday, February 16 | 5:30 - 7:30 pm | Chamber Office | dcarroll@mckinneychamber.com

March After Hours

Come join us for networking, great food and drinks to celebrate St. Patricks Day at Stonebridge Ranch Country Club.  They  will provide assorted appetizers and one drink ticket.

Thursday, March 15  | 5:30 - 7:30 pm | Stonebridge Ranch Country Club - The Ranch Clubhouse, Hills Course dcarroll@mckinneychamber.com

Advisory Committee Spotlights

Holly Bates, Craig Ranch Community Association

MYP Chair Elect

Holly Bates is currently the Lifestyle Director for Craig Ranch. Before becoming the Lifestyle Director, she worked as a commercial producer, editor and weekend reporter for two television stations in Amarillo, TX. Holly is originally from Texas but she grew up in Tennessee and Georgia before coming back to Texas almost 8 years ago. She recently graduated with her Master's degree in History and moved to the Dallas area where she lives with her chiuahuah, Bella and cat, Miss Kitty. In her free time, Holly is a member of the Junior League of Collin County, plays on an adult co-ed soccer team and volunteers as a videographer with I Am Second. Holly hopes to one day be the Communications Director for a Christian-based non-profit or work in Civil Affairs.

Jolie Williams, Coldwell Banker Apex Realtors

MYP Secretary

Jolie Williams is the 3rd generation of real estate professionals in her family. She made the transition from corporate sales to real estate in 2010 and has been recognized for being a top producing agent in her office. Jolie has earned recognitions with the local media for her specialization as a Certified Real Estate Divorce Specialist and her work with D.I.V.A.S. (Divorcing Independent Very Able Survivors).  

Jolie works and lives in McKinney with her boyfriend Mike and their Maltese puppy, Lexi. On her down time she can be found enjoying a night out in downtown McKinney, watching hockey, and watching/sleeping through movies.

Cayti Huston, CASA of Collin County

MYP Professional Development Chairman

Cayti graduated from the University of Colorado with bachelors degrees in International Affairs and Russian Studies. Throughout her college career she worked with various nonprofit organizations doing anything from translating (Russian into English), working with youth programs and learning about the business aspect. She became passionate about working in the nonprofit arena because she knew she was making a difference.  Upon graduation, Cayti began working for a nonprofit in Denver that served victims of domestic violence, homelessness and child abuse. "There is no greater reward than knowing that you are helping someone in a time of need," she says. That is what led her to CASA of Collin County when she moved to North Texas. CASA provides a voice in court for children that have been abused or neglected. I am currently the Development Associate, and love coming to work every day knowing that she am helping local children who are suffering abuse.

Cayti is thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the McKinney Young Professionals and get to know all of its members.  Cayti, her boyfriend Mike and their dog Ralphie have lived in McKinney since May of 2011.