10 Top Tips to Ace a Networking Event

I’m sure you have heard it before. Going to networking events is a great way to make new connections.

But guess what? If you don’t learn the proper social skills or understand how to make the most of them, then you are missing out on something crucial!

Sure, networking events have their pros and cons. But ultimately, they put you in a position to build rapport with like-minded individuals and offer the chance to increase your spheres of influence. So why not go?

Before you do, make sure you know how to maximize your time and capitalize on its benefits. Here are 10 top tips to ace a networking event that will help you navigate it like a pro.

Tip #1 – Sign up and get prepped

First things first, you must sign up for one! Then, it’s time to prepare. Put together a list of goals and polish your elevator pitch before you get there. Create a list of people you want to introduce yourself to … then make sure you do so at the event!

Tip #2 – Arrive ahead of time

Make a point to get there early. This gives you a chance to look over the final attendee list and scope out the venue. You can also review or adjust any of your networking goals and get focused on what outcomes you are hoping to achieve.

Tip #3 – Speak with attendees

You didn’t sign up to go and be a wallflower. Talk to the other attendees! Need help breaking the ice? Hang out by the bar. Everyone will be going for a drink at some point and feel compelled to speak to those next to them while waiting for it. Or use a great conversation starter. When you do, always ask open-ended questions. You want to avoid yes or no answers to keep the conversation flowing, for example:

• “What made you decide to attend this event?”
• “What were you hoping to learn tonight?”
• “What was the highlight of your day (or week)?”

Tip #4 – Identify the event organizer

Introduce yourself and tell them what you think of the event. They’re the ones driving the ship and know the most important people and when and where everything will take place. They can also introduce you to others! But don’t monopolize their time as they are sure to be busy.

Tip #5 – Be approachable

Body language is HUGE. Did you know words only make up 7% of how we communicate? The rest is nonverbal. As I said, body language is huge! So be mindful of yours. And remember to smile. You’d be surprised at how inviting it can be.

Tip #6 – Be inclusive

Is someone sitting by themselves, and you are with a bunch of people? Invite them over! Make life easier for them. The more you make others feel welcome and at ease, the more people will want to be around you.

Tip #7 – Facilitate introductions

Be a super-connector. If you know of two people who can be of value to each other, make sure they meet. Both will appreciate it, and they will remember you for it.

Tip #8 – Hand out business cards

They should highlight what you do and how you can potentially benefit your peers. Include something unique! Then when an opportunity arises, you will stand out and be memorable. Make sure you collect them from other attendees too. A good tip is to make a note on the back of the card of something interesting about the person to help you remember them.

Tip #9 – Have fun! 

Always be present in the moment and have the right mindset. Don’t be the insecure negative person looking for all the problems at the event. People will gravitate toward you only if you demonstrate positive attributes.

Tip #10 – Follow up

It is imperative that you follow up with your new contacts within 24 hours. Connect with them through email and social media. Send a message to say it was great meeting them and coordinate a post-meetup if that was discussed. Just make sure you do it!

Take it a step further

Does the idea of going to a networking event still fill you with dread? Or are you looking to up your game at your next one? When you enroll in our Conference/Event Playbook online training course you will learn even more strategies that will help you maximize your time and gain the best possible outcomes.

We also developed a cheat sheet for you to utilize that you can download here! It includes a checklist to follow and action steps so you can form a plan to implement before, during, and after a networking event. Be sure to download it before your next one!

Building relationships is important to getting ahead both professionally and personally. And knowing how to effectively network and communicate with others at conferences and events is vital to making this happen. You must plan your time wisely and know how you can be of value to others to benefit from the opportunities being presented.

When you want to walk away with quality connections you need to avoid wasted time and concentrate on identifying those you can have valuable relationships with. And remember, quality over quantity wins EVERY time!