How can you make a lasting impression at your first networking event?

What i have found makes a big difference, a smile, a good handshake (not a limp one) but mainly engagement and interest in the people you talk to. With added positive commitments, like oh I love your logo tell me how did that come about.

Be Different, Yes do all the things listed. Find out about the other attendees, and what their remarkable achievements are, then look for them. You want to research questions for them to look good. Suck up politely, no puppy eyes. Pick the most deserving person and give them Kudos. If you can't find three people you want to meet, then pass on the event. It is extremely important to be genuine in praise. Otherwise, people will think you are inappropriately hitting on them. There should be several people you want to meet.

Making a Lasting Impression at Your First Networking Event Positive Body Language: Maintain eye contact. Offer a firm handshake. Stand tall and use open gestures. Elevator Pitch: Craft a concise, compelling introduction about yourself and your professional background. Clearly communicate your value and differentiation. Genuine Interest in Others: Ask open-ended questions to show genuine interest. Listen actively and attentively to their responses. Professional Attire: Dress appropriately for the event and industry. Ensure your attire reflects your professionalism and personal brand. Follow-Up Plan: Collect business cards or contact information. Follow up with personalized emails or LinkedIn requests to solidify your connections.

The best way to make an impression: Be a great listener Smile and make eye contact Ask great open questions Follow up with the people you meet Don’t pitch. Don’t go to sell. Help others first by being a Go Giver.

Making a lasting impression at your first networking event is all about being genuine and engaging. Prepare a brief introduction about yourself and ask thoughtful questions to show interest in others. Dress professionally, bring business cards, and be yourself. After the event, follow up with the people you met to reinforce the connection. It's all about building genuine relationships that can lead to future opportunities.

Dont do what I did and went for a nervous toilet break wearing a dress..... I will leave it up to your imagination. I think the best thing is to go with an open mind and curiosity. You don't need to make a commitment to anyone, just be interested.

Most importantly, be you! That's going to give you confidence and stand in your own power. Dress in a way that reflects you and who you are in the most professional way you feel is appropriate for the occasion. The way you show up in your clothes is entirely your choice, don't think you have to do things the way everyone else does. Be the very best version of yourself and if you don't know how to do that, ask me :)

I like the idea of an interesting/quirky name badge ?? It helps open the conversation. Or maybe dress in an unusual or stand out outfit to draw attention?

Attend like your going to meet you biggest potential client ever. This is how to make a great impression, not by thinking, it’s only networking.

Wear something that makes you feel epic on the inside. Have we not evolved from having a 'professional uniform'? Wearing something you are uncomfortable in will show on the outside. It's not what you wear - it's how you make people feel during your interactions.

Listen to hear what the other person has to say, not to wait for a gap to speak. Ask questions that demonstrate you listened and don't be afraid to ask for an explanation if something isn't clear to you - we all strive to be understood, so you will be remembered simply by asking honestly.

Focus on making 2 or 3 really great connections and see if you can add value in some way to help them. I hate it when people run round handing out business cards to every single person and not bothering to listen and connect properly. It's about making valuable connections.

Use your social media to make connections. It started with a meeting at an event, but nurturing the relationships is key to truly being able to serve others

Just showing up is the first step. After that, be kind, be curious, be collaborative and be your authentic self. It really is that easy.

Top two tips 1. keep a hand empty...don't be loaded down with a drink, and something to eat, and a programme...and. You need to be able to shake hands with people you meet 2. have a small repertoire of opening lines/questions...something more interesting than 'and so what do you do'. Try 'what do you do when you're not being a (insert business title)' or 'what are you hoping to get out of this event' as a starter.