You’re at a networking event and can’t seem to connect with anyone. What’s your next move?

Sometimes networking situations can feel a little forced so I would recommend taking yourself out of the situation for maybe 10 minutes- go grab a drink, take a walk around the block. Its also about your mindset so try and focus on what you want to achieve from the networking event and set yourself a target

Stuck in a networking rut and can't connect? Here's my strategy: 1. Break the pattern. Step outside for 5 minutes. 2. Power up with affirmations. Tell yourself, "I'm great at connecting. I have value to add." 3. Shift your mindset. Remember WHY you're there. 4. Return and seek out open group circles. 5. Listen actively and connect on a personal level. Networking is about genuine connections. It's not just who you meet, but how you meet them.

One possible next move could be to approach a smaller group of people or individuals who seem more approachable and strike up a conversation with them. It may be easier to connect with a smaller group or individual rather than trying to break into a larger conversation. Additionally, asking open-ended questions and showing genuine interest in the other person can help to establish a connection. If all else fails, it may be helpful to take a break and regroup before trying to connect with others again.

Networking often feels daunting, but I've learned the real barrier is our mindset. Viewing it as a competition or fearing judgment can hold us back. Instead, I see networking as a chance to share value and learn from others. Quality truly trumps quantity. It's not about collecting contacts but forming meaningful connections. Imagine finding that one person who can open doors in your field—it's gold. Networking isn't just about talking; it's about listening and understanding an industry, too. Sometimes, being a silent observer teaches you more than any conversation could. Each interaction is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect on a deeper level. Let's approach networking with openness and curiosity, making each connection count.

If weather didn’t exist, 95% of the ice breakers wouldn’t start. The other 5% is, “How did you hear about this event?” type of question.

Changing your state can be very helpful. Leave the room for a couple of minutes. Clear your head and start again. Refreshing your drink can help. If there is someone at the coffee table/bar smile and ask them if they are a regular at this event. That usually starts something off. If not look for groups of people who look ‘open’ and just wander over and slot yourself into their conversation. Don’t interrupt them. Just listen and wait for them to acknowledge you. Speak to the organiser. Say you don’t know anybody and would love an introduction. Remember though that you aren’t there to sell to people. Do lots of listening and make the conversations about them and you’re bound to find someone to connect with.

Für mich ist es der gr??te Anfangsfehler, wenn Menschen direkt pitchen. Es geht - wie so oft - darum, Beziehungen aufzubauen, andere Menschen kennenzulernen und Gemeinsamkeiten rauszufinden. Dies müssen auch nicht immer zwingend Fachthemen sein. Etwa der letzte Urlaub, potentiell gemeinsame Bekannte, gleiche Uni, ...

1. Reframe your thinking. Often we think in black and white. “Nothing’s good, everything’s great”. The truth is somewhere in the middle. So ask yourself how many people did you meet, before you arrive at that conclusion? I can guarantee you it won’t be that many. But your thinking will definitely make you quit the event much earlier than needed. 2. Read the room: Non-verbals are essential to understand your approach. How are people standing, their facial expressions, do they have an open or closed stance? There is lot of literature out there, you can review and learn from to master this. 3.Finally, you don’t want to just connect with anyone. You want to connect with specific people who raise the quality not quantity of your network.

When networking, shift your mindset. Observe the room and find like-minded individuals. Approach with curiosity, ask open-ended questions, and show genuine interest. Consider smaller, intimate gatherings like EGN or Vistage. Engage in discussions aligned with your interests. If struggling, seek guidance from networking experts. Building authentic connections takes time and effort, so stay patient and persistent.

If you're getting nowhere, you may want to rethink your approach. Observe others, adjust your strategy (group vs. individual), or seek an introduction from the event organizer.

Ask questions and listen ??♀? Instead of listening to your inner voice that either tells you that you don’t belong or they’re not the right people for you, be curious

Bring curious is a super power for networking. This combines asking great questions and real listening. The beauty is to listen to people, understand their context, why they came, what interests them. Be thankful for what you hear and interested enough to ask more questions. It doesn’t all have to happen in the first conversation, be curious, show interest and be thankful. Then ask to connect and see what can happen in the future.

Come talk to me, I’m happy to introduce you to someone you should know at the event! And I can guarantee if you are open and honest about your struggle most people will help because we’ve all been at an event where we couldn’t get that momentum to make connections.

You are never the only one in that situation. There are always others also a bit lost. Each of them is happy if you just say hello i think we both dont know too many people here, what you do/wanna drink etc. other people will join your group sooner or later in most cases as well.

Remember, you're not alone in feeling apprehensive about this networking event. Many attendees are also eager for the chance to make new connections. Just muster the courage to initiate a conversation with a friendly greeting and introduction. You'll likely discover that many participants are ready to welcome you with open arms.

Remember even brief interactions can be a good basis for reaching out later. Collect business cards or contact information with the intention of sending personalised follow-up messages. Write notes on the back of the card; when you do follow up, mention something memorable from your interaction, however brief, and express your interest in continuing the conversation. This shows that you value the connection and are serious about building the relationship. Following through in this way can often lead to more meaningful exchanges than those at the event itself, as it allows for one-on-one conversations in a less pressured environment. Remember, the true value of networking often comes from the effort you put in after the initial contact.

Time is of the essence & first impressions count Collect data by connecting your mobile phone scanning it with others in the room to your LinkedIn profile. Where possible, ask for a business card & give yourself out too. Once 5-7 days passes, re-connect with the new connections firstly via LinkedIn & then follow up via email requesting a 121 video call or should they too be in a local city to you strike whilst the iron is hot and meet them at their offices or in a mutually convenient public meeting place. Always follow up as a call to action plan. Every step you do after you have first met a contact matters. Remember people buy people first!

Der Zeitpunkt des Nachfassens und die direkte Ansprache hier im Sinne von Pitchen ist auf alle F?lle an die kulturellen Gepflogenheiten anzupassen. Ansonsten leistet man sich einen Fauxpas, der die Mühe des Events und des zeitlichen Invests zunichte macht.

In the context of social entrepreneurship, following up and following through is not just about building business relationships, but also about fostering trust and collaboration with communities we serve. It's about demonstrating genuine interest in their needs and aspirations, and showing how our social enterprise can contribute to their sustainable development goals. This approach not only strengthens our network but also deepens our social impact.

Big networking events can be hideous and they really don’t suit some people. Don’t worry too much if it really isn’t your thing - there are plenty of other ways of networking effectively that don’t involve this sort of thing.

Your network is your net worth so handle with care. Every connection is worth something if you look closely enough. Have fun connecting

Just leave. They aren’t a suitable medium for a lot of people. It’s slightly enforced and false a little like ‘planned fun’.

Sometimes networking events can be overwhelming. The best thing to do is choose an event that is relevant to what you are looking to achieve. Looking to meet other interims - go to an interim management networking event Looking to learn - go to a networking workshop on a subject you are interested in Looking to meet new clients - got to an event with a subject that attracts the right clients that you are looking to connect with. I have some networking tips coming next week in advance of Anderson Quigley next networking working event, look out for it!

Ein Event, eine Mission, eine Strategie - und dennoch individuelle Strategien pro gewonnenen neuen Kontakt. Denn nicht jede Person tickt gleich. Hier ist Fingerspitzengefühl und Menschenkenntnis gefragt.