Have you ever considered networking while bowling? It may sound odd, but integrating work with pleasure may be an effective method to develop connections in a casual setting. Picture this: the sound of rolling balls, laughter ringing through the lanes, and amidst it all, people from all professions starting up talks and creating significant relationships. This is what happened on January 28 when students and researchers from diverse sectors of life sciences gathered together for a stunning game of bowling at Isar Bowling in Munich and the side hustle of networking. We have hosted a variety of people from their Masters, PhDs, post-docs, and employees from their respective cores.
The vibe of a bowling alley is distinct from the traditional conference room or networking event site. The relaxed setting enables individuals to let their guard down, facilitating real encounters. As participants take turns shooting for strikes, they also engage in topics ranging from industry trends to personal interests, forming ties that transcend beyond the game. We knock our barriers by taking out the pins in high fashion and concentration.
Bowling is the ultimate icebreaker. Whether we are seasoned bowlers or novices, the shared experience of aiming for the pins gives us common ground for discourse. Offering pointers on technique or cheering for one other’s triumphs easily leads to talks that transcend the game itself.
Unlike typical networking gatherings where business cards are exchanged amidst formal introductions, networking while bowling is more spontaneous. As participants rotate across lanes, they have the ability to connect with various people, building their network in a dynamic fashion. The competitive attitude adds an element of pleasure, making it simpler to interact with individuals on a personal level. Beyond the bowling lanes, networking continues as players interact off the lanes. They exchange contact information, connect on social media, and potentially forge new friendships or professional connections. Similarly, in the digital world, networking extends beyond physical boundaries, enabling people to connect globally and collaborate across diverse platforms and channels.
In the middle of strikes and spares, connections are established that go beyond swapping numbers. Conversations flow easily, and participants get the chance to learn about one other’s origins, experiences, and objectives. These real contacts build the groundwork for future collaborations and partnerships.
As the evening comes to a close and participants tally up their points, (with my metaphors running out) the networking doesn’t have to cease. Following up with new connections is key to strengthening relationships made during the bowling night. Whether it’s connecting on LinkedIn, organizing a coffee meeting, or simply staying in contact, continuous communication ensures that the friendships created on the lanes continue to develop. But we concluded with a delectable explosion of Indian cuisine at Namaste India.
Networking bowling nights provide a novel way to forge professional ties. Players may create lasting friendships in a calm and pleasurable atmosphere by combining the excitement of bowling with the opportunity to meet with like-minded individuals. So next time you want to grow your network, consider trading in the boardroom for the bowling alley and seeing where the pins take you.
The event is organised by Dr. Ramakrishnan and Mr. Rahul Jagadeesan for their sincere efforts in conducting a community beyond science.
-Arivoli Aravindhan
Lifescience.club 
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