Top Tips for Networking Alone

When budgets are tight, it isn’t always possible for finance to send the whole team to a networking event, so if you are attending alone, we have you covered.

If nerves are getting the better of you, and your social cells are having a little panic then we have some top tips that will get you through the day or night and ensure you come away with connections having enjoyed a great time.

The first thing to remember when attending any awards or event is that everyone attending has common interests with you, there are likely other lone attendees in the room and it’s a social experience, people have come to talk about their work and share their experiences. ?

Still not feeling confident? Stay positive and follow our tips below.

1.??????? Connect on LinkedIn Before the Event

Why it Matters: Building connections before the event can make in-person introductions less intimidating.

How to Do It: Look up attendees, speakers or hosts on Linked in. Send a personalised connection request mentioning your shared event and expressing interest in meeting and sharing experiences. This establishes a sense of familiarity which will make approaching them at the event a little easier. LinkedIn profile pictures will help you manoeuvre the room or arrange a meeting before and if possible, attend together.

2.??????? Set Yourself Clear Objectives

Why it Matters: Having objectives and a goal can help you keep focused to make the most out of the event.

How to Do It: Decide what you want to achieve whether that is meeting potential new clients, expanding your connection circle or discussing industry trends and swapping expertise. Deciding on your goal, will give you confidence and guide your interactions.

3.??????? Arrive Early

Why it Matters: Arriving early means you don’t experience a crowded room that is difficult to manoeuvre through and it is easier to strike up a conversation in a quieter room.

How to Do It: Before the event officially starts is an opportunity to chat with organisers, judges and fellow early birds. With no pressure interactions can be more relaxed, meaningful and trustworthy.

4.??????? Approach Someone New Early in the Event

Why it Matters: You will get the most out of the experience if you step out of your comfort zone from the outset.

How to Do It: Remember the room is full of like-minded people, look for someone who looks approachable, and maybe like you they are alone. Introduce yourself with a smile and a simple opening like “Hi, I’m (your name and company). What bought you to this event?” This will break the ice and is quite natural to bring forth conversation.

5.??????? Leverage the Common Ground

Why it Matters: Starting with a shared topic eases the conversation and makes it more engaging and relaxing.

How to Do It: Talk about the event. If it is an award, you can ask what they have been shortlisted for, if it is networking ask what sessions they are particularly interested in. These questions give opportunity for conversation about mutual experience and expertise.

6.??????? Understand Everyone is Looking to Network

Why it Matters: Realising the people you are approaching and striking up conversation are there to make connections, share experience and learn will help reduce anxiety.

How to Do It: Keep in mind everyone at the event is there for similar reasons. Be gentle they could be just as nervous as you, even if they are not alone. Be prepared to share your story to grow conversation and to avoid being intrusive.

7.??????? Ask for Introduction from the Host or Organisers

Why it Matters: Hosts and organisers usually know the attendees and can introduce you to key people and lone delegates/attendees.

How to Do It: Politely ask the host or staff member to introduce you to someone you would like to meet, everyone in the room will align to your interests and goals. The host authority can take the pressure of you, and you might benefit from the introduction if it is someone unexpected.

8.??????? Join a Group Conversation

Why it Matters: Group settings can be less intimidating than one-to-one and can offer multiple networking opportunities at once.

How to Do It: If you notice a small group chatting, approach with a smile and politely ask ‘Do you mind if I join you?’ Most groups and teams will welcome an addition and you are likely to be asked many questions about your experiences when you join the discussion as a new face.

9.??????? Follow Up After the Event

Why it Matters: networking doesn’t end when the event does; following up solidifies the connection.

How to Do It: Smart phones will let you connect on the night, but always follow up with a LinkedIn message or an email if you have one. Reference the event and your conversation and express how glad you were to meet. This maintains your trustworthiness and keeps the connection for future interactions and event meetups.

10.? Be Yourself – Genuine and Authentic

Why it Matters: Authenticity builds trust and will inevitably lead to longevity in the connection.

How to Do It: Don’t try too hard to impress, focus on being yourself and genuinely engage with others by listening and reacting truthfully. People respond well to honesty and are more likely to remember you for it. Share your experiences and show genuine interest in what others have to say.

Networking alone is never easy, but the fear can often be greater than stepping out of our comfort zone that first time. In every interaction remember share your experience and expertise, be authoritative, but don’t dominate the conversation, and all times be genuine, honest and trustworthy. Sound familiar?

These tips can help you network at any event. By being proactive and fearless you will build connections that matter and last, and which will benefit your professional journey.