Making the Most of a Networking Event
- Tatiyana Cure
- Apr 24, 2016
- 3 min read
Most people only start thinking about attending a networking event when they embark on their next job search. When they do actually attend a networking event, they feel pressured to get something out of it and feel disappointed when they don’t get a lead on a job opening they really wanted.
If that’s your purpose of attending a networking event, stay home and browse job boards – you will be more successful in accomplishing the goal of applying to job opening. On the other hand, if you are looking to meet new people, bounce ideas, open your mind, gain insight about a company or industry while also having a good time, then certainly attend as many networking events as you possibly can.
You will also find networking events are much more fun once you become a regular and start running into some familiar faces. As a matter of fact, I will be participating in NYC networking event on Friday April 29 hosted by “Leaders of the 21st Century”. If you would like to join me, purchase your tickets here and follow these steps to making the most of the event.
Set a goal: Perhaps your goal is to make a meaningful connection with someone? Add 5 people to your network? Or maybe it’s to gain industry knowledge? Pick your goal follow through with it.
Know how to introduce yourself: I would suggest crafting a 15-20 second elevator pitch/ commercial about who you are, what you do, and why it is important. Make it personal, strong and memorable. Don’t over-rehearse it before the event; make it natural.
Bring your business card: If you would like to continue having a relationship after the event is over, you need to ensure that you will be able to be contacted. As you will not be able to put your phone number into someone’s phone or write it on a cocktail napkin, bring your business cards with you. Do not hand out your resume.
Introduce yourself to the host: This is an easy way to gain some insight about the attendees and get noticed. This will also become very beneficial if you become a regular.
Quality over quantity: Instead of exchanging business cards, focus on building a rapport and have quality conversations.
Be mindful of your body language: Maintain eye contact, uncross your arms and keep a welcoming posture.
Stay positive: Do not use the networking event to vent about your situation. Hold a pleasant conversation; nobody wants to talk to a negative person.
Don’t be selfish: Don’t interrupt conversations and don’t force your business card onto anyone. Let the other person introduce himself or herself first and consider their goals before you start talking.
Join the conversation: This is very different from interrupting just to hand out your business card. Don’t be nervous about joining a group, just do it very politely.
Be interested and engaged: Ask 3 to 5 open-ended questions and let the other person open up to you. Listen and respond.
Remember and follow up: As you probably won’t be able to remember every little thing about each conversation, take notes directly on the business cards after they are exchanged to jog your memory for your follow-ups. I suggest following up within 24-48 business hours to show gratitude for their connection.
Voice your desires: Nobody can help you if you don’t tell them what you want. Consider what’s it in for them and address that in your presentation. I suggest replacing every “I, me, us, and we” with “you or your”; it will make a significant change in impact of your presentation.
Share your contacts: If you can introduce the person you are speaking with to someone else in the room; you would be offering something upfront to the relationship – do it. Alternatively, you can put them in touch with a meaningful contact after the event. You can’t expect other people to share their network if you are not willing to do it first.
If you have additional best practices to make the most of a networking event, please comment below or email me at TCure@CFStaffing.com
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