You're attending a networking event to showcase your personal brand. How can you make a lasting impression?

Do you have a pitch about yourself? These days they call it the 'elevator pitch' - 30 secs to introduce yourself and say what you are about and what you do. Create that and use to highlight what is different and outstanding about you. Listen and ask questions —showing genuine interest in others’ stories can be more impactful than talking about yourself. After the event, follow up with personalized messages or notes to reinforce the connection. Additionally, sharing a memorable anecdote or offering valuable advice can help you stand out. Your goal is to be memorable not just for what you do, but for how you make others feel.

To make a lasting impression at a networking event: -Start by clearly articulating your unique value, what sets you apart and how you help others. -Ask thoughtful questions to show genuine interest in others’ stories. -Bring value by offering insights, advice, or connections without expecting anything in return. -Finally reach out to peers on LinkedIn, with a personalized connection request.

At a networking event, your image and wardrobe are key to advancing your executive presence. Opt for attire that is both professional and reflective of your personal style—classic, well-fitted suits or smart separates can convey confidence and authority. Pay attention to details like polished shoes and minimal, elegant accessories to show you’re meticulous. Your choice of colors can also impact perception; neutral tones exude professionalism, while a pop of color can signify creativity. Overall, ensure your wardrobe complements your brand and aligns with the event’s formality to make a memorable, positive impression.

Crafting a pitch isn't always the best approach when trying to communicate a message or sell a product. Sometimes, a more genuine and conversational tone can be more effective in capturing the audience's attention and gaining their trust. People generally respond better to authenticity and sincerity, so it's important to strike a balance between presenting information and connecting with the audience on a personal level. Listening to their needs and engaging in a meaningful conversation can often yield better results than simply delivering a rehearsed pitch.

Talk about them. Talk about the things your ideal audience cares about - their pain, their struggles. Don’t make it about you. Your personal brand is how people will remember you, e.g., “you’re the person who can help me with x”

An outfit doesn't have to be appropriate for an event, as long as it isn't inappropriate. I always wear jeans and T-shirts, mostly Nick Cave concert merchandise T-shirts. At the last in-person networking event I attended an international visitor came up to me and said: "The last thing I expected to see tonight was someone wearing a Nick Cave shirt" This person will never forget me, we connected on LinkedIn and they recommended me to business owners who need my expertise. Dress the part, yes. BUT the part is "How you show up when you work with your clients"

The way we look is 55% of the first impression we make, which is powerful. Dress strategically by incorporating a signature element that aligns with your brand’s message, such as a bold accessory or color that reflects your personal style—for instance, wearing a striking lapel pin or statement necklace that symbolizes your expertise or creativity. Do also ensure your attire matches the tone of the event and think about adding a personal twist, like pairing a classic suit with modern, vibrant shoes to convey professionalism while subtly standing out. This helps others remember you long after the event.

I ensure my appearance aligns with my personal brand. Dressing professionally and confidently helps me make a strong first impression. → Choose an outfit that reflects your personality and professionalism. → Pay attention to detail and body language.

Networking events are often scary for people, I can understand that… the walking into a room of people you don’t know. Most of the people in the room will be in a similar position and welcome someone to chat to over a coffee. Listening is key, watching body language also key, being authentic and genuine is critical. Following the 'two ears, one mouth' approach is generally a winner.

Instead of just talking about myself, I actively listen to others. This shows genuine interest and helps me build meaningful connections. → Ask thoughtful questions to show engagement. → Make sure to maintain eye contact and nod in understanding.

Don't make the interaction about yourself. Instead, connect with others and ask them questions. → about their work, their journey, how they achieved it, and what were the setbacks. Don't interrupt while the other person shares their experiences. Once they're done talking, pick the points from the conversation and ask a follow-up question.

When I did the active listening element of my mediation training I remember the trainer saying everyone should learn active listening and I quickly realised how amazing it is. Listening properly to people rather than rushing to talk over them with your view is so powerful. Try it in your next business meeting or networking event.

If you want to stand out, look professional and grow your network at a networking event, make sure to have your LinkedIn QR code ready. Not only will it help you stand out but it makes post event follow ups easier. It also saves you the time and hassle of manually searching for connections on LinkedIn. Follow me for more LinkedIn insights.

You don't want to be a serial dater in a room of people you network with. You want to listen, remember and connect meaningfully. If the love them and leave them approach to networking is what you are practicing - then skip the event. I go to each event with a clear outcome. Meet three people I want to stay connected to and do that.

Take a quick tumble in front of everyone or tell funny jokes. There will be no missing you, and all attendees will remember you!

To make a lasting impression at a networking event, focus on connecting meaningfully by engaging in genuine, two-way conversations. Approach interactions with curiosity and active listening, asking thoughtful questions that show sincere interest in others' experiences and perspectives. Share your own insights and experiences in a way that aligns with your personal brand, but do so in a way that feels authentic rather than rehearsed. Building rapport through shared interests and offering value through helpful advice or connections can foster deeper relationships, making your presence memorable and impactful.

I focus on quality over quantity when making connections. Building a few strong relationships is more valuable than handing out countless business cards. → Offer value during conversations, whether it's advice or support. → Stay authentic in interactions.

Leave them with a “Hook” Share something intriguing, like an exciting project you’re working on or a unique perspective on your industry. It gives people a reason to remember you and follow up!

After the event, I always follow up with new connections. A thoughtful message helps me stay on their radar and reinforce our conversation. → Personalize follow-up messages based on the interaction. → Maintain regular contact to nurture the relationship.

Sending an email feels more formal and will likely disappear into the hundreds of emails they’ve received that day. A follow up message on LinkedIn feels like a casual continuation of the conversation in the room. Offer to QR code connect on LinkedIn on the day. Their reaction/confusion will tell you if they use LinkedIn for networking or not.

Leave a lasting impression in a short time. Be authentic and confident, share a clear and concise personal story that highlights your unique value, and actively listen to others. Follow up afterward to build genuine connections and reinforce the impression you made.

??? Escucha primero, habla después: Da espacio a los demás, sin interrumpir; cada conversación es una oportunidad de conectar. ?? Sé auténtico: No intentes ser alguien que no eres; tu autenticidad es lo que realmente deja huella. ?? Ofrece tu apoyo: Mostrar disposición para ayudar es un gesto que siempre es apreciado. ?? Define tu público objetivo: Ten claro con quién deseas conectar y por qué. ?? Ten un propósito claro: Pregúntate cómo este evento de networking contribuye a tu crecimiento. ?? Acepta la diversidad: No todos resonarán contigo, y eso está bien. No juzgues y mantente abierto a nuevas conexiones.

Once the offline event is over, I connect with those folks on LinkedIn and WhatsApp — if they share their contact information. I DM them saying thank you and reminding them that we met at the event. I engage with them by sending them a relevant content piece or information they'd find helpful or comment on their LI posts (if they're active on LinkedIn

To foster a sense of value and engagement, I always begin our conversations by allowing others to share their experiences and perspectives. This not only shows that I'm interested in them but also provides me with valuable insights. While they're speaking, I take the opportunity to integrate relevant information about my company, highlighting how we can potentially collaborate or assist them.

I connect with people on LinkedIn after the event, further showcasing my personal brand through posts, comments, and shared content. → Mention the event in your connection request. → Stay active online to keep the relationship alive. These steps help me leave a lasting impression and solidify my personal brand during networking events.