Nailing a Networking Event: Arrive Early

It’s tempting to arrive fashionably late for networking events if you imagine you might be standing around awkwardly and alone, but don’t be late – arrive early, before everyone is happily engaged in conversation with somebody else. If you are truly the first registrant to arrive the people organizing the event will make a point of introducing themselves and put you at ease. By the time the next attendee arrives you’ll already be a little more relaxed because you’ve had a chance to practice your conversational skills.

If introducing yourself to strangers feels uncomfortable, remember that it’s what many people feel when they enter a networking event. Your reaction is completely natural and people go to these events to meet strangers, so most of the people in the room are feeling the same way and you all want it to go well. A little preparation will go a very long way toward making you feel more comfortable and allow your best qualities to shine through, so take a little time before the event and consider which of the following you could improve on:

1. Prepare some conversation starters to ease the introductory pressure
2. Notice the flow of the room and position yourself strategically
3. Keep your eyes open for loners and be kind and encouraging

Being there first is also a great mindset as you enter these events. The first person at an event is in a natural position to greet the next arrival, which starts off the event on a confident note and attracts people to you. If you’ve always avoided being the first to arrive, try it and let us know how it works for you!