Are Networking Events Worth Your Time?

Networking events… some people love them, some despise them.

I’m sure what comes to mind is a bunch of salespeople walking around a room handing out business cards. Because this is what most perceive it to be. But it’s more than that.

Whether it’s a virtual event or an in-person gathering there are many benefits to attending one! But it can also be seen as a non-rewarding experience.

Do you think networking events are worth it or a waste of your time? Let’s talk about the pros and cons, and you can decide.

The Pros

If you want to grow as a person, then you need to grow your networks! There are many ways to connect with new people and attending a networking event is high on the list. Here are some of the pros and advantages that come from it:

You will make several connections. With a group of people, you have multiple chances to identify potential opportunities, as opposed to an individual meeting over coffee where all your time is focused on only one person. And who knows! You may meet a super-connector who will have a powerful impact on your life.

You will learn something. Whether it’s about an attendee or the latest podcast you need to listen to, you should walk away with new insights. Including about yourself! During your interactions, you discover your value and what that worth means to others.

You will feel less lonely. Meeting up with people who share mutual interests and have a desire to help you become successful can aid in combatting loneliness and lead to a happy and healthier life.

You are all there for self-improvement. In one way or another. Whether you’re looking to meet new clients or want to connect with like-minded people who share your same interests it’s about enhancing your life and developing meaningful relationships. You have an audience of people with a certain mindset! And you should tap into it.

You will gain a sense of accomplishment. If you prepare properly and establish meaningful relationship-building goals for what you want to achieve at the event, you’re setting yourself up for various opportunities. And it gives you something to strive for.

You will be remembered. Hopefully for the right reasons! Because of the hat you’re wearing or the color of your shirt, or because of the funny story you told you can become top-of-mind when someone comes across an opportunity that suits you.

They can be fun! You meet new people, share experiences, and hopefully find it beneficial. And then you also have something to talk about at the next one!

The Cons

There is great value in attending a networking event and you will reap many rewards by going. However, there are some misconceptions and drawbacks that can go along with it too:

They can be considered unproductive. Networking is often thought of as a dirty practice. Some think everyone is just there for their own gain and to play a numbers game with how many business cards they can hand out or collect.

It’s just a bunch of unemployed people looking for jobs. While it’s true many attendees are jobseekers, your main goal at an event is to build relationships first – which then leads to potential opportunities.

There is no instant gratification. We’re used to this in our society – but building a network doesn’t just happen overnight. You must understand this and work at it. As I’ve said many times, after all, it is called netWORKing!

As an introvert, you won’t meet new people. Or you’re not sure how to engage in small talk. There are tips and tricks that can help you overcome this and get you on track to making meaningful connections.

No true networking gets done. This occurs when a plan and goals are not set. You need to properly prepare before the event to gain (and offer) value through your newfound contacts.

You could get stuck with an “overtalker” or an “askhole”.  You know, those people who won’t stop talking or only take but never give? This can be frustrating especially if they weren’t the person you intended to meet! Arming yourself with effective conversation starters and knowing the polite way to end a discussion is key to your success.

There is no value to going. You get out what you put into it! Having the right mindset before, during, and after attending them is what makes all the difference.

These are just a few pros and cons of attending a networking event for you to consider. Only you can decide what works best for your success in helping you reach your relationship-building goals! And if going to one will be worth it – or a waste of your time.

You can also learn to embrace the opportunity by enrolling in our online training course Conference/Event Playbook: Maximize a Networking Event Like a Pro. You will discover strategies to use your time wisely and what you should do (and should not do) to make the most of it. Sign up for our course today, it will change the way you look at your next event!