I am going to “Tech Meetups”, a semi social event. One of the ideas behind it is networking. These meetups, however, are co-ed, with men and women attending. My Q is, is it permissible for me to go and what guidelines for conduct may I follow? Should I only approach men to introduce myself to, etc?
One may approach women to conduct business, but one must place safeguards in place to avoid unnecessary interaction. It is hard to give clear guidelines on this matter, for each person needs to see for himself what is better to avoid.
Nonetheless, here are some guidelines:
No handshaking to women even as a business gesture.
One should dress in attire which is respectful for a G-d fearing Jew.
One should not needlessly stare at a woman, rather only that which is for business related conduct. (We have a rule that an אומן טררוד במלאכתו (an expert is preoccupied in his profession).
One should not deal extra friendly to a woman, rather one should deal with business conduct.
If a woman is dressed non-Tznius (provocative), one should be extra careful in particular.
One may not make a special wink or gesture even for friendly purposes to a woman.
One should not come to a situation of Yichud, there or at a work setting.
Sources:
Igros Moshe (O.C. 1:113).
See Shulchan Aruch Even Haezer 21:1,5-7.
Even Haezer (Siman 22).