Networking events can be a great opportunity to expand your contacts, showcase your expertise, and generate leads for your business. But how do you stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on the people you meet? Here are some tips to help you prepare, communicate, and follow up effectively at networking events.
Before you attend a networking event, do some homework on the organizers, the agenda, the speakers, and the attendees. This will help you identify your goals, plan your pitch, and target the most relevant and valuable contacts. You can also use social media, blogs, or podcasts to learn more about the topics and trends that interest your potential connections.
Your appearance can influence how others perceive you and your professionalism. Dress according to the dress code and the culture of the event, and avoid anything too flashy, casual, or provocative. You want to look confident, comfortable, and approachable, not out of place or distracting. You can also use accessories, such as a badge, a pin, or a scarf, to express your personality and spark conversations.
Speaking to all my female business development peers: One of my go-to methods of dress for large networking events is to wear a color that stands out without being too loud or too flashy. For example, at a large conference for hospitality in late June, I wore red pants with a black top. At another conference in September, I wore a green top with black pants. The key is to make yourself memorable not your outfit. People's eyes are drawn to color and this can also be done with accessories, like earrings, that make a statement. Last but not least, I tend towards outfits that have pockets to make it easy to store business cards or receive them, but if that can't be done, choose a stylish crossbody satchel that holds the phone, mints, and cards.
Networking is not just about exchanging business cards and sales pitches. It's about building relationships and trust. To do that, you need to be friendly and curious, and show genuine interest in the people you meet. Smile, introduce yourself, ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and give compliments. Avoid dominating the conversation, interrupting, or looking bored. You can also use humor, stories, or anecdotes to break the ice and create rapport.
One of the best ways to make a great impression at networking events is to offer value to your contacts. Value can be anything that helps them solve a problem, learn something new, or achieve a goal. For example, you can offer a tip, a referral, a resource, a feedback, or a testimonial. You can also offer your expertise, your experience, or your perspective on a topic. Don't be pushy or salesy, but show how you can add value to their situation.
The impression you make at networking events doesn't end when you leave. You need to follow up with your contacts promptly and keep the conversation going. Within 24 hours, send a personalized email or message to each person you met, reminding them who you are, what you talked about, and what value you offered or agreed on. You can also connect with them on social media, invite them to another event, or schedule a meeting or a call.
Finally, to make a lasting impression at networking events, you need to keep in touch with your contacts and nurture the relationship. Don't just reach out when you need something from them, but show that you care and that you're interested in their progress. You can send them relevant articles, podcasts, or videos, congratulate them on their achievements, ask for their opinions, or share your updates. You can also ask for feedback, referrals, or testimonials, if appropriate.
At networking events, you'll likely meet dozens of other people; it's up to you to stand out. People prefer to work with people that are enthusiastic about their work, so be sure to establish your strengths and talk about them with confidence. If you can help them out in some way, they'll be more likely to remember you once the event is over. It's a good idea to have business cards produced if you don't already have them. Make sure you have plenty for the day and that you swap cards with anyone you'd like to keep in touch with.