Preparing for a Networking Event

To make networking events even more effective you must learn to prepare for them.

But how do you effectively prepare for a networking event?

Here are some ideas that might be helpful.

Understand your intention for going to the networking event.

What do you hope to get out of going to this event?

The clearer your goal, the likely you are to actually achieve your goal.

Prepare a list of things you can ask for, specific types of introductions you are looking for and also prepare how you can help people. Think about what value you can add way in advance so when you show up, you are ready to give and take.

Have a clear elevator pitch that is customized for this event

Write down your elevator pitch and rehearse it a few times.

No one wants to see you practice on the stage. So practice before you get on the stage.

Everyone will thank you for delivering the perfect message when someone asks you “What do you do” Make it stand out and super interesting. Think about benefit rather than features and tell a short story that is captivating and funny.

I love telling people that my elevator pitch a rap, I ask permission and then I do my little rap.

I also take selfies with the people I interact with as my signature brand and people remember for for a long time after we meet.

Get yourself into a grateful and joyous mood before joining

People are attracted to good energy so get into a good state before you enter the event.

Make sure you have a list of things that you can review before the event that you are very grateful for. Things that you have accomplished that make you feel proud and look at photos that bring your joy.

This will lift you spirit, make you want to smile and prepare you to be the light in the room.

Bonus: Bring business cards that stand out and leave people feeling good about themselves.

You want to leave a lasting impression so make sure that what you give out is high quality.

Give out compliments and let people know that you are here to add value first.

What are some ways that you prepare for networking events?

Please leave a comment below and let me know

Joe Apfelbaum

Ajax Union

PS: Remember that most of the action happens in the follow up so when you collect contact info, take a photo of it and make a note to follow up as soon as you get back to the office. Connect on Linkedin and let people know that you are a serious networker!