How to Choose the Right Networking Events For You.

Networking events can be daunting if they’re something new to you. So what’s the best way to tackle them?

There are so many different types of networking events. It can be hard to work out which one is right for you.

Between the informal coffee meet ups, formal lunches and relaxed evening events, how do you choose? Simple, try them all!

You don’t have to commit to every one you go to (if you did, you’d never have time to do anything else), but give each one a go. This way it will become obvious which suits you best.

Some people find going with a colleague helps them, as they can bounce off each other. But don’t fall into the trap of using your colleague as a barrier and therefore missing out on speaking to others.

Going alone forces you to branch out and speak to new people. Everyone is there for the same reason, to make new connections. No one is there to trip you up or make you feel uncomfortable. Just talk about what you do.

Set yourself a target. ‘I aim to speak to at least 3 new people today’. Don’t be afraid to jump into conversations with others. Be confident, be polite and just introduce yourself.

You soon realise that in a room full of people, you might not do business with anyone there. But that’s fine. It’s by building on those initial connections that you create a relationship with people. Maybe they know someone who is the perfect client for you, and can make an introduction.

It will take time to work out what’s best for you. In the meantime, here are some of our favourite networking events. We hope to see you at one soon!

• Network Watermead  An informal morning event held on the second Thursday of every month at Starbucks in Thurmaston, Leicestershire. Free to attend, the event runs 7:30-9:30am and you’re free to come and go as you please. The relaxed atmosphere is ideal if you’re new to networking. More on this event click here.
• Networking @Nottingham Playhouse- Something a little bit different. Costing just ￡10, this runs every fourth Tuesday of the month. Starting off with informal networking, followed by a 10 minute presentation from a guest speaker. After, you are split into smaller groups where you get the chance to do a 30 second pitch to your group. For further information, click here.
• Kuku Connect- Taking place on the first Thursday of every month between 6-8pm, at a different venue in Leicester each month. This is a membership event which you can attend as a guest first. Very relaxed networking, helped along by free drinks and canapes! Kuku Connect is now expanding in Derby. For more details on the events and membership, click here.