How to make the most out of networking

If you aren’t a seasoned attendee of networking events, the whole thought of it can be a little daunting and might even put you off going completely! However, if you are looking to forge new business connections, it can be a hugely beneficial way to develop relationships, build up trust and showcase what you and your business can offer. 

As someone who has attended a number of networking events over the years, and been lucky enough to get business off the back of them, I have put together some tips on how I recommend approaching networking, and how to make the most out of these events. 

First and foremost, it is important to remember that networking is, more often than not, a long game. Whilst not impossible, depending on what service you are offering, it is quite rare that you would walk away from a networking event with new business or clients straight off the bat. What is key is that you make a great first impression, so that you are at the forefront of people’s minds when they do need your assistance. 

1.    Do your research. Networking events, although very useful, can also be timely and, when you are time-poor, you want to ensure that you are only signing up for those that will be beneficial to you and your business. I learned this the hard way the first couple that I went to! A good networking event should give you a solid overview of the type of people it will attract, with some even showcasing the attendee list ahead of time. This is a really useful tool, and I would always recommend reviewing this prior to taking time out of your working week, to make sure that the type of people you are wanting to attract will be in attendance and that it isn’t a waste of your time.

2.    Position yourself near the coffee (or bar!) Walking into a room filled with strangers can be overwhelming for most people, initially. The vast majority will head straight to where the refreshments are once they arrive, to collect their thoughts and scope out the room. If you position yourself near there, you should be in a prime position to strike up a conversation once people have a drink in hand!

3.    Be yourself. Networking is all about relationship building, so it is imperative that you are yourself. If you try and be someone else, you will be starting these initial relationships off based on a lie. Be genuine, as people buy into people. When you connect with people this way, they are more likely to stay in touch as they are more invested in you as a person. 

4.    Find the organiser and introduce yourself. This is a good way to better understand more about the networking event and who is in attendance. If you build up a relationship with the organiser, there is a higher likelihood of them introducing you to other attendees or pointing you in the direction of people they think might be interested in you and the service you offer.

5.    Think about your body language. Be engaged in the conversation, keep eye contact and be mindful of body language. Nod your head and ask questions. These small cues will show that you are genuinely interested, are a good listener, and care about what they are saying. This will go a long way in building trust and rapport. Remember, even if the particular person you are speaking to wouldn’t be a potential client, someone in their network could be!  

6.    Share contacts! When speaking to people, if you know of someone in your network that could help them or be of use to them and their business, let them know and share their details. If you are willing to share your contacts and resources, it is more likely to be reciprocated and will show that you are a sincere person and not just out for quick wins. 

7.    Don’t just work the room. Networking events aren’t about meeting every single person in the room and giving them your business card. Focus on building a few solid connections and engaging in conversations with a couple of individuals. Short interactions will, most likely, not be memorable, however, meaningful dialogue should result in that person remembering you and what it is you do after the event.

 8.    Follow up and connect. After attending a networking event, I will always connect with those I have had conversations with on LinkedIn. If they don’t have LinkedIn, drop them a line and thank them for their time, it won’t go unnoticed! 
 
Following these tips should go some way in helping you get the best out of each networking event you attend. The more you attend, the less daunting it will be and the more confident and comfortable you will feel. It is important to keep up the consistency as, once people begin to recognise you and you are able to further develop those relationships, the more likely you are to reap the rewards. Get out there, relax, shake hands and enjoy the experience!