What to Do When It Feels Like a Lot: Practical Networking Tips

As someone who has attended over 1000 networking events, conferences, and seminars, I’ve learned a lot about the art of networking. Meeting people and building connections can feel overwhelming, especially when life already feels like a lot. Here are my top 10 tips for navigating the networking world with ease and confidence.

Gratitude Shoutout: Special thanks to BNI for introducing me to the world of networking, and to E&Y, PWC, and Eisner Amper for hosting some of the best events I’ve ever attended. A nod as well to Morgan Bockius for their support.

1. Prepare Ahead of Time

Before attending an event, research the attendees and speakers. Know who you want to connect with and what you want to talk about. This preparation helps you make meaningful connections and eases the anxiety of approaching strangers.

2. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve from the event. Are you looking to make new business connections, find potential clients, or learn about industry trends? Clear goals will guide your interactions and keep you focused.

3. Practice Your Elevator Pitch

Have a concise and engaging introduction ready. Your elevator pitch should highlight who you are, what you do, and why you’re attending the event. Practice it until it feels natural.

Honestly, when you stop trying to be interesting and you just double down on genuine curiosity you will meet a lot of people and naturally have a lot more engaging conversations.

4. Listen More Than You Speak

Active listening is crucial in networking. Show genuine interest in others by asking questions and listening to their stories. People appreciate being heard and are more likely to remember you.

5. Follow Up Promptly

After meeting someone, follow up within 24 hours. A simple email or LinkedIn message can reinforce the connection and keep the conversation going. Mention something specific from your interaction to personalize your message.

The key is to stay in touch with people who you feel like you have genuine relationships with.

6. Leverage Social Media

Use LinkedIn and other social media platforms to connect with people before and after events. Engage with their content and share your own insights. Social media can extend your networking efforts beyond in-person events.

7. Attend Regularly

Consistency is key. Attend networking events regularly to build and maintain relationships. The more people see you, the more familiar and trustworthy you become.

8. Offer Help and Value

Networking isn’t just about what you can get; it’s also about what you can give. Offer help, share resources, and provide value to others. This approach builds goodwill and strong, reciprocal relationships.

9. Stay Positive and Authentic

Networking can be intimidating, but maintaining a positive attitude and being authentic can make a big difference. Be yourself, share your passions, and let your genuine interest in others shine through.

10. Take Breaks When Needed

Networking can be exhausting, especially when combined with other responsibilities. It’s okay to take breaks and recharge. Your mental and physical well-being is important, so listen to your body and pace yourself.

Networking has been a transformative part of my professional journey, and these tips have helped me navigate it successfully. Whether you’re a seasoned networker or just starting out, I hope these insights will make your networking experiences more enjoyable and productive.

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