The Power of Networking: 5 Tips to Boost Your Business at Industry Events

Networking can sometimes feel like a buzzword everyone throws around but few truly understand. We all know it's important, but how do you make the most of it, especially at industry events? Travelling last week to Toronto for CMEE and next week to Connect in Milwaukee, I found that networking face to face is still on of the best approaches to really connect with clients and industry partners.

Why Networking at Industry Events Matters

Industry events are gold mines for networking because they gather like-minded professionals under one roof, all eager to connect, share, and learn. According to a survey by the Harvard Business Review, 95% of professionals believe that face-to-face meetings are essential for long-term business relationships.

5 Tips to Make Networking Work for Your Business

1. Be Authentic and Approachable - The key to effective networking is authenticity. People can spot a fake from a mile away, and the last thing you want is to be remembered as someone who’s just trying to sell something. Instead, focus on genuine conversations. Ask questions, show interest in others' work, and share your experiences. Authenticity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any meaningful business relationship. Ask yourself, "what can I do to provide value for this person?"
2. Have a Clear Goal in Mind - Before you attend an event, think about what you want to achieve. Are you looking for potential clients, partners, or just to learn from others in the industry? Having a clear goal helps you navigate conversations and make the most out of the time you spend networking. It also allows you to be more strategic in who you approach and how you present yourself. One of my fav tips is make a list of every guest that you would like to meet and speak with. Introduce yourself, connect on Linked In if you haven't already and be genuine.
3. Follow Up and Stay Connected - The real value of networking lies in the follow-up. After the event, make sure to reach out to the people you’ve met. A quick email, LinkedIn connection, or even a coffee meeting can keep the conversation going. According to the Dale Carnegie Training Center, 85% of job success comes from having well-developed soft skills, and following up is a great way to demonstrate your commitment and reliability.
4. Leverage Social Media for Networking - Don’t underestimate the power of social media in networking. Connect with people on LinkedIn, engage with their posts, and share relevant content. This keeps you on their radar and can lead to more meaningful interactions in the future. A study by LinkedIn revealed that 79% of professionals believe that networking is valuable for career progression. So, use your online presence to complement your in-person networking efforts. Share what events, you have attended, share your pictures, tag people. Remember networking and events can be really fun.
5. Be Open to Serendipity - Yes, I said Serendipity! (A little woo woo) Some of the best networking connections happen by chance. Maybe you strike up a conversation with someone while waiting for coffee or sitting next to them in a session. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and talk to people you wouldn't normally approach. These unexpected connections can sometimes lead to the most fruitful opportunities.

Making Networking Work for You

Networking at industry events is more than just a business card exchange; it’s an investment in your future. By being authentic, having clear goals, following up, leveraging social media, and being open to chance encounters, you can create lasting connections that benefit your business in the long run.

Networking is a skill that gets better with practice. So, the next time you’re at an industry event, don’t just stand on the sidelines—dive in, start a conversation, and watch your business grow.

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Here's to a Networking Experience,

Sarah Pritula

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