If you want to put your best foot forward on a networking event, there are some rules to be followed. Regardless who is the host, you want to present yourself from the positive light and not embarrass yourself.
First things first. Always reply to the invitation. Check the invite for dress code, arrival time and any other guidelines.
Arrive 10-15 minutes late maximum. You do not want to be too early and the first person at the place. Once you arrive, put your mobile phone away.
Networking is all about connecting with others and make new relationships, so you should not only focus on giving away your business cards.
Upon your arrival, scan the room and see who you want to approach first. Walk up and introduce yourself. Try to continuously move yourself around the room. You are going to meet this way a lot more people. A good place to meet someone is the bar, so head there if you are still little shy about approaching a group. When trying to approach one, try to decide a group is an open group or a closed one. Don't squeeze and force yourself into a circle but wait for opening.
Conversation topics
Generally, at a business events it would make sense to talk about business topics. However, we should not limit ourselves to only these. At any change, we should not start a conversation with "What do you do?". It can come across as opportunistic.
At a start it is good to bring up a nice light topic. For example, an upcoming events, festivals or business conference. People you are talking to may have similar interests and having something in common is a great way to start an ongoing relationship. There is plenty of things happening in local areas, nation and the world so why don't you discuss something you read up?
Complimenting others on projects they worked on or other accomplishments is a must!
There are also some topics we should be avoiding. These are politics, sex, weather, family, illness or diet.
In order to keep the conversation going, we must ask open-ended questions. These could start with "what", "why", "how" for example. By using these, you can get more detailed answers from someone.
"What speakers did you enjoy?"
"Why did you enjoy Steve's speech?"
"How do you think the team will do with the next goal?"
It is not appropriate to ask someone how much something cost. This would make others feel uncomfortable.
In order to make new friends find something you have common with people, make a joke not offending anyone (of course!) and show genuine interest in what they are saying. You do not always need to talk about business topics. As them why did they come to the event, how did they hear about it, whether they have been there before, etc.
Engage in the conversation, look into their left eye (yes, you here me right!) and listen carefully.
If you find yourself in a bad network and looking to close the conversation do not be rude. Politely thank them, say you enjoyed speaking with them and that you look forward to seeing them again.
Networking should not be limited to transactional relationships. You can add meaning to any connection. Send birthday wishes, send holiday greetings, send them congratulations when things are going well for them or they announce something that you know about. If there is something you think will interest them, forward it to them. Do something to help someone.
Post regularly on social media, stay relevant. You want people to know that you are knowledgable or connected in business. You can also help someone by suggesting a great restaurant or any other advise they may ask for. Be honest. If someone helps you, always say thank you. It is important to show others appreciation. At times it may be appropriate to write a handwritten thank-you note, consider sending a gift. A box of baked staff, a box of fruit or a gift card always work.
Comments