Networking at the Gym
Hi Everyone!
I'm a 19 year old Stats undergrad, who just finished 1st year of uni in the UK. I am involved in my school's block chain club, where my role is to invite speakers and organise events relating to FinTech, InsurTech and block chain developments. I have had some internship experience in the tech division of some BB banks, but I will be looking to secure IB opportunities for summer next year.
This summer, I've been getting up early to gym at my local sports club. Primarily, because I'm trying to achieve a sickkk summer bod, but also because I know a ton of executives go there early in the morning (think 5.30 am). It turns out the guy I keep meeting at the running track is the IB Division Head. I don't want to interrupt his morning routine, but I'm also keen to learn about his role and experience. I've been meeting him regularly at the track at this point, so he definitely recognises me. Anyways, I engage in small talk to get things going, and I tell about my experiences at uni. I also ask him about his work and express my interest.
I'm writing this at 9.30 pm, cos I'm probably gonna have to get up earlier for work :)
P.S. I'm new to WSO, so forgive me for this exceptionally long post.
Yours truly,
A Prospective Chimp
Probably couldnt hurt to push a little if you talk with him casually enough. And if he doesnt like it, you can just find another gym
Thanks for the advice - I managed to get the position
congrats!
Best Gyms to Network in NYC, LA, Chicago, Dallas & Houston (Originally Posted: 03/10/2013)
Equinox seems to always be a safe bet, but I was hoping to get some ideas of some more exclusive gyms/clubs in these cities. Anyone know of any?
People really network at the gym? I know that if someone came up to me in the middle of my workout and started chatting with me about any-fucking-thing other than "are you done with that?" I'd immediately be pissed off at them.
NYC: equinox columbus circle, equinox soho Chicago: east bank club
If you're trolling then well done, I'm biting. Dude, calm the fuck down. Its a GYM. People go there to exercise not to help college kids get an internship. You will piss people off more than anything else if you start asking to "reach out" and "learn more about the culture" inbetween their sets.
Networking is important but every decision you make doesn't need to be influenced by it.
I think it's a legitimate question... obviously the main reason you go to the gym is to work out, but only a loser wouldn't try to make the best out of any given situation. So why not put yourself in a situation where you have a potential chance to make a contact. Definitely not trolling and I think trying to network at a gym is by no means absurd compared to some of the ridiculous things I have seen people on this forum recommend as a sound networking strategy. Keep in mind I'm not talking about hitting someone up while they are benching or anything. I'm talking about make small talk while in classes, at the juice bar, et cetera. I don't think I need to "calm the fuck down" or anything. I'm throwing monkey crap at you for that remark!
Actually only a one-dimensional douche bag would think of everything in terms of how he can best get people to do things for him.
Yeah sure.
I'm glad we agree.
This coming from a guy with Ari Gold as his avatar lol. You're totally taking what I'm saying out of context. Of course anyone will do things out of the kindness of their hearts, but there's nothing wrong with trying to help your own situation. By saying trying to make the best out of any situation I was not inferring trying to use people. I meant if I'm going to be here anyways I might as well try to find some people to talk to as well. I don't think that is by any means using people.
Pictures of fictional characters often tell a lot about people. Do what you want, but everyone is letting you know you're going to come across as a huge dbag if you try to network with some dude at the smoothie bar of a gym.
Make sure to solely conduct your networking efforts in the locker room; shower for maximum effectiveness.
agree w/ equinox soho, but please don't network there...
Ain't no networking gon happen with some college kid I catch looking at my cockarooni when I get out the shower
I work out at equinox UWS. Never have I seen a networking opportunity, unless it was a girl walking by in those spandex shorts.
See this video for gym etiquette. It is a MUST watch.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=420009748087365
If someone tried to "network" with me at the gym I would offer to spot them on the bench and make sure I make it look like an accident...
Perhaps I should clarify what I mean by networking. I'm talking about opportunities to make small talk with people in classes, the sauna (hard to believe, but a lot of people strike up conversations), et cetera. I'm not going to be running around with resumes or anything. Also, I'm not a college kid. I'm just looking for a better job potentially. Seemed like a reasonable, riskless way to maybe make a contact. I know it might not be likely but why not consider it when choosing a gym. I personally wouldn't have a problem with someone talking to me about what I do if we were already talking about sports or whatever. I've seen way worse methods of "networking" on here being encouraged. I'm surprised to see all the animosity towards me on this.
I've actually struck up a casual conversation with someone who was asking for a spot; that having been said, I don't think this is the norm and you shouldn't go around seeking networking options at the gym - talking in the shower room is a definite no, same with approaching people with earphones in.
Can't say anything for sauna or classes, but who would want to talk to you while sweating their asses off or in the middle of a spin class?
If by "network" you mean "hook up with random guys in the sauna," then I suggest any of the David Barton locations.
equinox for this
Who networks with other guys at the gym?
This thread is not for straight guys. So guys, please be cool with it. Good topic, bro. Next question: how to approach a stud in the gym without looking like a creepy weirdo?
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