I got together with a former colleague recently to attend a meet-up that night. Just one problem: We both forgot to RSVP. I wasn't worried because since I'm a regular at these events, I was hoping we could slide in, under the radar.

The meet-up this particular night was on the roof of a building downtown, and because of fire codes and maximum occupancy rules, the organizers wanted to be well-informed on how many to expect.  Like our airline industry says, "Safety first."

In addition to forgetting to RSVP, my colleague and I were late to the event, but thought we may be able to walk in because, after a certain time, maybe no one would be checking the entry list. Not so fast.   

We arrived outside the front door and two well-manicured young ladies holding clipboards asked for our names.  After not finding them, they smiled and said, "We're at capacity so...sorry."  Awkward. I looked in the building and saw another young lady standing at the elevator. She apparently makes sure after that after clearing the list, no one gets off on the wrong floor.  

Note to self:  Follow directions. Sign up ahead of time and then show up when expected.  I didn't follow my own advice.  I do that on rare occasions, but fortunately my mentees know they can call me on it and I'll listen to them. But the real problem is this: I have philosophical aversion when allegedly egalitarian gatherings morph into a society events with a guest list.  The point for these meet-ups is to either get to know someone, bring someone new or welcome the "newbies" and make them feel included.

If people are turned away at the door, who wins here?

I've said before that I'll only attend meet-ups where there is no barrier to entry, other than being able to show up.  I see invitations to many  local journalism and technology gatherings that charge admission. Fifteen dollars here, thirty dollars there. It's hard enough for people who do not have work, are under-employed, or who are innately shy to overcome what is not their fault. Why are more restrictions be set against them?

Regardless, I will try again, listing or not. 

doug@knowledgewebb.net

*Chantal de la Rionda edits this blog