A networking event at Eastern Market went sideways when my phone died

I was at a Detroit business mixer at Eastern Market last month, trying to connect with some local contractors. My phone battery was at 15% when I got there, and I figured it would be fine. Halfway through talking with a potential partner for a big roofing job in Midtown, my phone just shut off. I couldn't pull up my company portfolio or swap contact info. I felt like a total fool standing there. I ended up borrowing a pen from the bartender and writing my email and number on a napkin for the guy. It worked out because he called me the next day, but it was a close call. I'm debating if I should just carry a small paper notebook to these things or invest in a heavy duty portable charger. What's your backup plan when tech fails at a key moment?

2 comments

2 Comments

noah8801mo ago

A napkin is a fine backup, but a small notebook is more reliable. It shows you're prepared without needing power. I keep one in my glove box for exactly this reason.

xena_kim1mo ago

Oh, for sure! I actually started carrying a pocket notebook after too many times trying to save a receipt or napkin and it just getting crumpled or lost. I grab a small spiral one from the dollar store and keep it in my center console. It's held up way better than any napkin ever did.