You’re attending a trade show with less experienced people. How can you help them network?

1 Prepare ahead of time

Before you head to the trade show, do some research on the exhibitors, speakers, and attendees. Identify who you want to meet, what you want to learn, and what you can offer. Share your goals and strategies with the less experienced people and help them set their own objectives. You can also create a list of potential questions, conversation starters, and follow-up actions to use during the event.

2 Introduce them to others

One of the easiest ways to help less experienced people network is to introduce them to the people you already know or want to meet. This can break the ice, establish credibility, and create a sense of belonging. You can also invite them to join you in attending sessions, visiting booths, or participating in activities. Make sure to highlight their strengths, interests, and achievements when you introduce them, and encourage them to share their opinions and insights.

3 Give them feedback

Networking can be challenging, especially for less experienced people who might feel nervous, intimidated, or overwhelmed. You can help them improve their skills and confidence by giving them constructive feedback. For example, you can praise them for asking good questions, making eye contact, or handing out their business cards. You can also suggest areas for improvement, such as speaking louder, listening more, or avoiding distractions.

4 Let them explore

While it's helpful to guide and support less experienced people, you don't want to micromanage or overshadow them. You should also give them some space and time to explore the trade show on their own, meet new people, and pursue their interests. This can help them develop their independence, creativity, and initiative. You can check in with them periodically, share your experiences, and ask them how they're doing.

5 Follow up with them

After the trade show, you should follow up with the less experienced people and help them maintain the connections they made. You can remind them to send thank-you notes, connect on social media, or schedule meetings with the people they met. You can also ask them to reflect on what they learned, what they enjoyed, and what they want to do next. You can also share your own feedback, lessons, and plans.

6 Be a role model

Finally, one of the best ways to help less experienced people network is to be a role model for them. You can demonstrate how to network effectively, professionally, and authentically by showing enthusiasm, curiosity, and respect. You can also share your stories, challenges, and successes with them and inspire them to pursue their goals. By being a role model, you can not only help them network, but also build a lasting relationship with them.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?