M3+ | UX/Product Mentoring + Networking | Handshake to Heartshake: Building Community That Builds Your Network
Who is it for?
Professionals, entrepreneurs, designers, freelancers, consultants, and anyone looking to grow their career through meaningful relationships rather than transactional networking. Whether you're building a business, expanding your professional circle, or simply want to become a better connector, this session will help you create a network rooted in trust and community.
You don't need to consider yourself a "natural networker." You just need to be open to leading with generosity, curiosity, and authentic connection.
What will we do?
This session blends storytelling, practical strategies, and interactive discussion. Lauren will share the principles she's used to build thriving businesses and communities, then guide participants through actionable ways to shift from collecting contacts to creating lasting relationships.
🚨 Because we value mutual learning, participants are encouraged to share experiences, ask questions, and practice networking approaches that build trust, create value, and strengthen their communities. 🚨
Handshake to Heartshake: Building Community That Builds Your Network
We've all heard that networking is about making connections, exchanging business cards, and growing our contact list. But the most valuable relationships aren't built through transactions—they're built through trust.
In this engaging and inspiring session, Lauren Dunnaway shares how she's built an international network and a thriving business by focusing on one thing: creating genuine community. From launching social groups and professional organizations to connecting thousands of people through shared experiences, Lauren demonstrates that the strongest referrals and biggest opportunities come from giving first, not asking first.
Attendees will discover how creating spaces for others to connect, serving their communities, and leading with authenticity transforms a simple handshake into a lasting relationship. Whether you're growing your career, your business, or your influence, you'll leave with practical strategies to build trust, create meaningful connections, and develop a network that works because it's rooted in genuine relationships.
Attendees will learn how to:
Build authentic relationships that naturally lead to referrals and opportunities.
Shift from transactional networking to community-building.
Become a trusted connector by creating value for others.
Use generosity and service as the foundation for long-term professional success.
Because in the end, your greatest network isn't built by collecting contacts—it's built by creating community.
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Agenda
(very general)
5:45-6:00 Early-bird Bonus Networking Time
6:00-6:30 Meet and Greet and Eat (Pizza and drinks provided by Improving)
6:30-6:45 Announcements/Introductions etc.
6:45-8:30 Project/Activity session
8:30-8:45 Member Shareout
Follow us!
Instagram @m3plusmentoring
Facebook & LinkedIn /m3plusmentoring
Questions?
Message us team@m3plus.org.