Maximizing Networking Opportunities at Business Conferences: A Comprehensive Guide
At business events, every interaction could be the piece you need to make your business prosper.
With the upcoming Slush on the horizon, where networking opportunities abound, you may be seeking guidance on how to make the most of these events. I’ve carved a niche for myself as a visionary entrepreneur and CEO of software development company Voypost. Drawing from my own successful experience (Web Summit in Lisbon, Bits & Pretzels and other events), I bring in 10 to 15 leads to Voypost from each of these events.
I’m happy to share practical tips and strategies for effective networking. Let me spill the beans on making the most out of business conference networking opportunities.
Memorable Pitch
To ensure that every interaction you have at business events leaves a lasting impression, make sure to have an in-depth preparation. Networking, after all, isn’t just about meeting people; it’s about understanding mutual synergies and setting the groundwork for potential collaborations in the future. One of the most pivotal things you should take care of is a memorable and clear pitch. First impressions matter! Here’s the formulae of the pitch I’m typically using:
Introduction. Are you a serial entrepreneur? A top manager? Wear that title with pride.
Keywords. 3–5 words or phrases that encapsulate your essence. Make sure they resonate with your persona.
Experience. 3–5 sentences detailing your experience, tangible numbers, and solid facts.
Icebreaking. Sharing personal stories, and engaging in small talk can strike a chord.
Future. Share your goals and mission. What are your aspirations for the upcoming years?
Emotional. Radiate positive energy, drive, and charisma. Establish a sense of equality by treating others as peers, rather than positioning yourself above or below them. Mutual respect fosters better relationships.
Collaborate with an assistant
Having an assistant by your side can be your secret weapon for a seamless networking experience. Your assistant can help you research attendees, set up meetings in advance, and optimize your event schedule. Also assign your assistant the task of compiling required documents, promotional materials, or digital presentations.
Moreover, think of preparing business cards. Embed QR codes on your card, directing them to your social media profiles, WhatsApp or email. In case a person doesn’t need a physical card, share a QR code from your phone so you can follow each other immediately. Customize your card to include the event’s logo or theme. This way, when someone stumbles upon your card later, they’ll instantly recall the event and your interaction.
Prepping: The devil is in the details
A well-thought-out approach and minor things can make the difference between an ordinary chat and a memorable discussion that leads to significant opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at some minor aspects to make the picture full.
Spruce up Your Socials. Refresh profile pictures, optimize bios, update work details, declutter feeds, and ensure all links are functional.
Engage Ahead. Introduce yourself in event-related chat groups. A sneak peek never hurts!
Research Side Activities. Stay informed about what’s happening on the sidelines of the event. Sometimes, the magic happens outside the main stage.
Social Media Announcements. Share your participation news. Who knows? Some old connections might be attending too. Find out who’s attending and set up potential meetings.
Invest in a Fresh Look. Make sure that you feel comfortable and confident in your outfit. Remember, comfort is key. Your attire should not just make heads turn but also make you feel at ease.
Ensure your Calendar is Clear. The event deserves your undivided attention for these days so keep the focus on these days.
Throughout the Event
Top 3 basic rules I always follow during the event:
- Mute distractions. Silence those phone notifications and immerse yourself in the present.
- If someone sparks your interest, schedule meetings and calls with new contacts right away while getting to know each other.
- Ponder upon the unique value you bring to the table. Offer insights, experience, or specific contacts to others.
While at the event, the whirlwind of interactions can leave even the best of us overwhelmed. How do you ensure you remember the important details about each new connection? The answer is surprisingly auditory: make use of audio notes!
Right after an interaction, take a moment to record your immediate thoughts and feelings. This captures the raw essence of the conversation, something that might be lost in a written note. Jot down specifics like the person’s goals, their workplace, or any mutual interests you discovered. These details can be crucial for any follow-up interactions. To convert your speech to text notes there are some apps I can recommend: veed.io, Good Tape, Speechnotes.
Post-event, you can play back these notes to refresh your memory, ensuring that each subsequent interaction is informed and personal. Follow up the leads in about 5–7 days or schedule your own follow-up plan.
Incorporating these strategies into your event networking approach can drastically elevate the quality of your interactions. Remember, networking is not a rocket science — with the right mindset and experience, anyone can master it.. Equip yourself with these actionable tips, and you’ll be networking like a pro in no time. Good luck, and happy networking!
