Many people, including some of the most outgoing people I know, hate a networking event. For them, walking into a room full of strangers is worse than going to the dentist. Lately I have ramped up my networking and I have become that person walking into a cocktail party alone knowing no one. Even I hesitate at the door. Here are my tips for working one of these “networking events”.
- Have your business cards very handy. It’s awkward to fumble for it or even worse – forget them!
- Head directly for the bar/refreshments – not for the liquid courage, but so you look somewhat busy and purposeful. I have one alcoholic drink and then switch to sparkling water so my brain is fully engaged.
- Once you have a beverage in hand, look around the room. I guarantee you there are poor souls just like you standing by themselves and hating the fact that they
decided to come to this event. Make a beeline for one of those folks. - Introduce yourself BRIEFLY and ask them about themselves. People generally are more comfortable talking about themselves and you will immediately become an excellent conversationalist just by listening and asking good questions.
- Don’t spend all night with the same person. Try to spend no more than 10-15 minutes with this person – sometimes 5 minutes may be plenty of time. If you like the person, give them your card and get theirs.
- Graceful exit – I have several and it depends on the person I’m chatting with. Some can easily handle, “I promised myself I would meet 5 new people tonight, so although it’s been great chatting, I need to move along”. Some do better with “I need to refresh my drink/food, it’s been great meeting you.” If you use the latter, go get the drink or food – that’s important so you don’t appear evasive.
- The biggest tip for networking – FOLLOW UP. The next day a quick email to follow up, perhaps invite the person to lunch or send them an article about something you spoke about , is the most important part of the networking. There is no sense going to these events if you aren’t going to try to meet one-on-one with folks afterwards.
- Finally, you can go to this event with a friend or co-worker, but do not cling to that person the whole evening. Split up, work the room and reconvene. There is no point going to a networking event just to hang out with someone you already know. I’m competitive, so I like having a contest like who gets the most business cards or meets the biggest VIP.
Now, please remember your manners, make eye contact and relax! As one of my mentors always tells me, all you want to do is make some new friends. What are your tips for networking? What events are most successful for you?
