Networking events can be a terrific way to meet new people, learn about your industry, and expand your professional network. They can also be a little uncomfortable, especially if you’re new to the idea or a bit of an introvert. After all, networking events require that you walk into a room where you likely know no one. Add to that the fact that people are already talking in groups and the overwhelm can magnify.
The good news is that you’re not the only one who feels that way. And there’s no need to be a master networking to get the most from the event.
Rest easy in the fact that the goal of attending any gathering of professionals is not to work the entire room or see how many business cards you can collect. Rather, your aim should be to make some good connections with the few people you meet.
In a previous article, we shared how to build a networking strategy and foster relationships throughout your job search. Now, we’ll get a little more tactical and discuss your game plan for success and how to make the most of the event while you’re there.
Quick Tips to Start Smart
Strong networkers want to maximize their time in the room, so it’s best to get there early before it’s too crowded. That allows you to obtain a feel for the venue and meet some of the other early arrivals. If they arrive at the beginning, they may be like you, looking for someone to talk to and get started with their efforts.
Plus, when you arrive early, you’ll have an opportunity meet the organizers, tell them whom you’d like to meet, and secure some introductions as others arrive. This provides you with a warm way to make new connections rather than feeling as if you’re on your own.
Before you walk into the venue, put away your phone. This may sound obvious, but many networkers walk around focusing on their phones, either looking to pass time or unable to resist the temptation to check email (or social media). However, a phone is a sure deterrent to conversations, and you want to appear approachable.
As people start to arrive, look for the other person in the room who looks a little lost. It’s much easier to connect with one person than to insert yourself into a group. Just walk up, say hi, and ask how they’re connected with the event. They’ll probably be happy to have someone with whom to chat.
If you don’t find a solo networker, look for a small group that’s engaged in conversation. Make eye contact, smile, and start with, “Hi; may I join you?” Simple and easy is always best.
Listen and Be Interested
The natural choice when chatting with people is to be interesting, but when networking, it’s actually better to be interested. The best way to do that is to simply listen. Ask open-ended questions and wait for the responses. The likelihood is that you’ll find some commonalities and naturally launch into a conversation. Some ways to start include:
- “What brought you to this event?”
- “Are you looking to meet anyone in particular here?”
- “What do you love best about what you do?”
Ask follow-on questions and get to know the person. A strong five-minute conversation will start to build a relationship much faster than scooting quickly from person to person.
Have Conversations; Don’t Pitch
If you’re attending a networking event because you’re looking for work, it’s perfectly appropriate to talk about your job search. It just shouldn’t be the first thing out of your mouth. There’s a big difference between asking if the person knows anyone who’s hiring and asking what they love best about their industry.
Of course, during the course of your conversation, you’ll no doubt be asked what you do, and that’s an ideal time to share what you’re looking for. But don’t expect an immediate referral—and don’t ask for one either. And don’t share your entire career history. Be concise:
“I’ve spent the last 15 years in supply chain leadership, primarily in manufacturing. I’m currently looking for a senior operations role where I can help an organization improve efficiency and scale its operations.”
Provide a picture that helps listeners have something to home in on, even after the event. If you’ve made it interesting enough, they’ll ask questions.
Know When to Move On
Understanding when a conversation is over is one of the most underrated networking skills. You don’t have to spend 45 minutes talking to one person just because you started the conversation. If you’ve had a good conversation, it’s perfectly appropriate to say:
“I’ve really enjoyed talking with you. I’m going to meet some other people, as should you. I hope we can connect on LinkedIn.”
You’re not being rude; you’re networking. And you’ve acknowledged that you’re both there to meet people.
Become a Connector
Once you meet a few people at your first event or attend a couple of networking meetings, you’ll be in the perfect spot to start making introductions yourself. And being a connector is an ideal thing to be because it not only helps other people; it helps you as well.
That introduction creates goodwill and demonstrates that you’re interested in the broader professional community, not just in what someone can do for you. However, you want to give without expectations. If you approach networking as a transaction, you may come up short. It’s better to not keep track and do what’s right for everyone instead.
If you listen well, you’ll find many opportunities to connect people, and you’ll be on the way to position yourself as a central hub.
Measure Success by Connections, Not Cards
Attending networking events is a long game. Think of it as planting seeds that will grow over time. Therefore, collecting cards isn’t the goal; making connections is.
Leaving an event with 30 business cards may feel like a win, but if you didn’t speak to those people, and they won’t remember you when you follow up—if you follow up—and those cards will only make for good recycling material.
A more lasting goal is to make a few good connections with people you didn’t know before you entered the room. By asking open-ended questions, you can learn more about an industry, discover commonalities, or make an introduction. Those are all great wins and start building a pathway to your next opportunity.
Keep Your New Connections Warm
Too often, new networkers forget what is arguably the most important part of attending a networking event: following up. All that work at the event will be for naught without having it mean something. The true goal of networking is to develop relationships, and meeting people is only the start.
Within a day, be sure to follow up with your new connections. Email and a LinkedIn connection request are ideal. Remind them where you met as well as what you’re looking for. If it makes sense, consider suggesting a coffee meeting to continue to build the relationship.
Remember that everyone is looking to make the most of networking events, and many of them feel out of place or uncomfortable. That means you’re not alone—and that everyone else there chose to be there because they wanted to meet people, learn something, build relationships, or grow their professional network. You’re part of that. When you’re curious and interested, magic happens. Don’t worry about the rest.
About Transition Solutions
For more than 35 years, Transition Solutions has helped individuals navigate career change through personalized coaching, innovative technology, and practical strategies for today’s job market. Our experienced career consultants help clients develop focused job-search strategies, strengthen their professional networks, and build the confidence to move forward.
To learn more about our services, visit Transition Solutions, call 888-424-0003, or email info@transitionsolutions.com. Follow Transition Solutions on LinkedIn for additional career advice, job-search strategies, and workforce insights.