The power and potential of networking events can’t be overstated. The connections you make can lead to long-lasting and mutually beneficial partnerships that will propel your business forward. Yet, most people still get nervous at networking events, introverts especially. The good news is that networking is a skill that can be learned and mastered just like any other. Here are our tips to help you grow your business by attending networking events:
Before the Event
1. Prepare
A great way to ease anxiety about attending networking events is to prepare in advance. Here are a few things you may want to consider beforehand:
- Pack your bag – Bring business cards, pens, a fully-charged phone, and anything else you might need. Sharing your business card and adding contacts on LinkedIn is essential to keep up your network.
- Eat beforehand – Even if the event has food, it’s a good idea to snack before so you have the energy to make quality connections.
- Dress appropriately – You want to present yourself and your business well, so check the dress code for the event and plan accordingly.
2. Make a Plan
Another essential step to take before the event is to look through the list of attendees and identify who in particular you’d like to speak to. Consider individuals who align with your interests and goals and think of what you could offer them in return. Prepare a few questions to ask them or conversation starters to make interactions more comfortable.
Also, consider rehearsing a brief introduction to make it easier to break the ice. Essentially, you want to show others who you are and how you can help them. It’s shorter and less pressure than reciting an elevator pitch and promotes more organic conversation.
During the Event
3. Arrive Early
Get started on the right foot by arriving at the networking event early. This way, you can familiarize yourself with the space and there will be fewer people around. A smaller crowd might make you more comfortable approaching others.
Also, try your best to seem approachable with your body language. People will see your welcoming presence and be more inclined to approach you.
4. Listen Actively
Resist the urge to immediately start talking about yourself and your entrepreneurial venture. Instead, take the opportunity to listen to others and take an interest in their business. Active listening looks like showing interest by nodding and smiling, avoiding interrupting, offering thoughtful insights, and asking follow-up questions. Networking is about building relationships, so try to keep things fun, light, and informal.
5. Quality Over Quantity
How many people you meet at a networking event depends on your appetite for social interaction. Generally, try to focus on the quality of your interactions rather than the quantity. While it’s important to expand your network, creating meaningful connections with only a few people is usually more beneficial than collecting business cards or contacts.
This is especially important for introverts, as networking can be exhausting. Check out our article, How To Network as an Introvert for more tips.
After the Event
6. Follow-up
Take some time the day after the networking event to follow up with your contacts. You could connect with people on LinkedIn, which is an easy way to stay engaged and benefit from their existing network. You could also follow up via phone or email, for those you really connected with. Offer to take them for a coffee or lunch to continue your conversation in more detail.
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