How to Get the Most out of Business Networking Events

Attending a networking event could be very fruitful if you want to expand your customer base or client list. As the world has opened back up from the COVID pandemic, the business world has learned to leverage both virtual and face-to-face events to increase your circle of colleagues and clients by attending various events inside and outside their industry.

It’s important to remember how you will present yourself and interact with others to leave a memorable meeting with others at the front of the event attendees and presenters. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you are stepping off on the right foot at the events you are attending:

• Research the event and learn about the companies that will be attending – not just front-page info, but info that takes a bit of digging
• Learn about the speakers and niche the event is representing
• Consider making a list on your phone of any specific people you want to meet first
• Create a business card that is different
• A good firm handshake with eye contact also helps you to stand out
• Stay engaged in the conversation through active listening and open-ended questions
• As you are conversing with others, add the research you learned into the conversation
• Don’t interrupt others when talking or bring up offensive off-topic subjects
• Be genuine in your interactions – don’t lie or be someone you are not
• As you meet people, try to make a note of something special about them or what you talked about – add it to the back of their business card – this helps to remember them
• Follow-up is vital to a successful networking event – very few people follow up with others
• Don’t be salesy. Remember: know, like, trust first, then a soft pitch

Networking can be intimidating and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be if you create a game plan before the event. Remember, only 20% of people do 80% of the work. Don’t be the 80% who don’t put in the work!  Be the 20% and positive results and outcomes will happen for you from a networking event.

Networking Associates of Bucks is a community-based networking group that meets every Tuesday at noon at The Waterwheel Tavern in Doylestown, Bucks County, PA.  Check out our members HERE.  Reach out to join us for lunch and see if we’re a good fit – the first lunch is on us!