7 things you should do before an event

Why are some people more successful at business events than others? Charisma? Personal charm? Or perhaps developed communication skills??

Partly for sure, but no matter how experienced a networker you are, the real secret lies... in solid preparation and a strategic approach. In today's newsletter, I'll give you a list of 7 steps that can become your key to success at any event.

Here we go!

1. Verify event type.

Before you decide to attend, verify that the topics and profiles of attendees match your company's needs. For example, if you're a marketer, an event focusing on innovation in advertising may be perfect for you.

?? Protip: Attend niche, specialized, and multi-sector events. This will allow you to build a much broader network.?

2. Set your own goals.

Determine what you want to achieve at the event. According to the SMART method, a goal should be specific (S), measurable (M), achievable (A), realistic (R), and time-bound (T). If the goal is to make new business contacts, a SMART goal might read: "I want to meet at least 10 new potential clients from the technology industry during the conference."

?? Protip: Write down your goal in a notebook and keep it updated.

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3. Study the agenda, sponsors, and speakers.

Before the event, carefully study the agenda and choose those presentations that best fit your goals.?

?? Protip: Sometimes it will be a better idea to skip the main stage speech and choose a more intimate presentation, after which you have a better chance to talk to the speaker.?

4. Get to know the list of attendees.

Identify the people you would like to talk to at the event. This could be a potential client, investor, business partner, or future employer. If you have the opportunity, take the first step and offer to meet at the event. This can be a great opportunity to break the first ice and "warm up" a future meeting. After all, you already know each other from the Internet :)?

?? Protip 1: Use LinkedIn and search for people by hashtag or event name - attendees often post that they will appear at some conference?

?? ?? Protip 2: Use a networking app (I know of one cc: Gridaly ) ;)

5. Prepare yourself.

In the 1980s, the concept of an elevator pitch was created. It’s a short speech in which, in a few sentences, you have to convey what you do and why you are worth talking to.?

?? Protip: The simpler your story, the greater the chance that someone will understand and remember it. As a benchmark, I recommend Bolt 's commercial "Does your job make grandma proud?" :)

6. A quick connection - must have.

Both traditional and virtual business cards (e.g. Linkedin) can be useful when exchanging contacts at an event. Make sure your profile and details are up to date.

?? Protip: After every contact exchange, remember to follow up (via text message, email, or Linkedin). Don't wait too long so that the interviewee doesn't forget about you.

7. Look for side events.

I've heard many times that "real networking happens at the banquet," because many business events are followed by side events (official or not). Side events bring together like-minded people in less formal settings - they can be workshops, networking evenings, music events, or even touring a city together.

?? Protip: If you don't know anyone, a side event will bring you the most new relationships. If there isn't one at the conference, ORGANIZE IT YOURSELF!

?? Preparing for the event is one thing, but remember to enjoy the process of meeting new people and building new relationships. Have a successful event! ??