What do you do if you want to level up your relationship building skills at networking events?

To use a sports analogy, we're too focused on the last second shot and not giving enough attention to the practice before the game. Preparation is the key to leveling up your networking skill at event. Here's an easy one to start with: Before attending an event, set yourself up for success. It is okay if your goal is to simply attend the event. Accomplish that goal and build on your success! If you want to push yourself more, set your goal to be "Let me connect with one person". Once the goal is accomplished, you're free to talk to anyone without the pressure of networking, which allows for a more free-flowing conversation or you're also free to leave! Either way, you accomplished your goal and congrats! Preparation is key!

In the world of networking events for building a relationship we must priorities the below:- 1) We should be prompt about the follow up. 2)Communication should be clear and to the point. 3)Adding value consistently may be like cherry on the cake. 4)We should be authentic and true to the services we deal with. 5)We should not miss out to attend networking events. 6) We should be a active listener. 7)We should be active and should not hesitate asking question if not clear. 8)We must strategize out things to make output perfect. 9) We should be great at social skill. 10) We should learn things instead of feeling shame of not knowing.

When I attend networking events, I genuinely want to connect with like-minded folks, so I don't feel pressured to be transactional. My approach involves setting a realistic goal for the number of people I want to connect with, usually three. Depending on the event, I may also set a reach goal of speaking with a headliner or thought leader. The more events I attend, the easier it becomes to strike up conversations.

"Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply." -Stephen R. Covey Practice active listening: Focus on understanding others rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. Maintain eye contact: Show genuine interest and engagement in the conversation. Ask open-ended questions: Encourage others to share more about themselves and their experiences. Paraphrase and summarize: Demonstrate that you're actively listening by repeating and summarizing what others have said. Show empathy: Acknowledge and validate the feelings and perspectives of others.

"Storytelling is the most powerful way to put ideas into the world." -Robert McKee Craft compelling stories: Share anecdotes or experiences that are relevant and memorable. Be authentic: Share stories that reflect your true experiences and values. Focus on connection: Use storytelling as a tool to create a genuine connection with others. Practice active listening: Pay attention to the stories others share and find ways to relate to them. Keep it concise: Make sure your stories are concise and to the point, respecting others' time.

I must admit that I have a stack of business cards from people I've met during my travels that I need to follow up with. I've noticed that I am more likely to reach out to those who left a really great impression on me. I may not follow up directly after the event because, frankly, life happens. However, when I come across opportunities or something that reminds me of that person, I send over a note with a resource. I don’t expect anything in return. You never know how an encouraging word and a resource can help an entrepreneur.

To level up your relationship building skills at networking events, prioritize post-event follow-up. Send personalized messages referencing your conversations. Remember, genuine interest trumps merely increasing your LinkedIn connections. Aim to connect with individuals whose positions you admire or with whom you've formed a real connection. This could lead to valuable coffee chats, sharing articles of mutual interest, or discussing similar experiences. Focus on nurturing meaningful relationships rather than solely expanding your network for the sake of numbers.

Totally agree to the topic being discussed here as I have made several connections because of the follow up after the events that I attended.

"Networking is not about just connecting people. It's about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities." -Michele Jennae Identify needs: Listen actively to understand what others need or are looking for. Offer assistance: Provide help or valuable information whenever possible. Make introductions: Connect people who could benefit from knowing each other. Share resources: Offer resources, articles, or tools that could be helpful to others. Follow up: Maintain the connection by following up with any promised assistance or resources.

Staying authentic can be challenging depending on the environment you are working in. Let’s be real here. How many of us can truly say we show up as our full, authentic selves at work or in other "professional environments"? I've noticed that on platforms like LinkedIn, people engage with me more when I express my thoughts directly rather than using the typical "LinkedIn voice". One of the questions I often ask myself is whether they invited "Marie from NJ" to this event or "Mary Rose from Boston". In terms of authenticity, I would say, do what makes you feel comfortable. Note: My name is actually Mary Rose, though some family members refer to me as Marie.