How To Enjoy Networking Events
As you’re packing up for the evening after a long day at the office, your boss stops by and invites you to a networking event later that week. Instantly, a deep sense of dread washes over your body. You mind starts to race: “I know networking is important, but do I really need more business contacts? I hate those ‘circles of death’ I always get trapped in…Quick, think of a excuse!” Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Particularly for the introvert within us, networking events can seem daunting. This week’s post will address those concerns and explain how to make the most of them — and avoid cowering in the bathroom.
Teresa Thomas is a speaker, author, and the director of Women In Networking, an organization that provides professional development resources to women. I recently attended one of her seminars where the topic of effective and confident networking was discussed. She explained that the surest way to leave a networking event feeling accomplished is to arrive with a plan. Before you enter the building and grab a nametag, ask yourself what you want to get out of the night. With that in mind, hone in on what types of people you’ll need to talk to to meet that objective. Last, prepare a short opening statement to help explain your objective to those you meet.
For example, if you’re new to your industry and want to learn more about the people working in it, after introductions, bring that up in the conversation. Asking your new contact about their objective is a good conversation starter, as well. Unsurprisingly, these objectives might not always line-up. If he or she tries to steer the conversation onto a topic that you don’t want to discuss, Ms. Thomas has excellent advice: “address and redirect.” While it probably is exciting for your new contact to learn that your dad was a professional football player, it’s unlikely you’re here to talk about that all night. Simply address their inquiry and then redirect the conversation.
According to Ms. Thomas, and anecdotal evidence, another common issue novice networkers have is knowing how to enter and exit conversations. To enter a conversation, look for odd numbered groups of people that are displaying open body language and who return your eye contact when you approach them. If you must approach a closed-off group, walk up to the perimeter and ask if you can join. Chances are they’ll respond positively. Another easy, albeit cheap, option is to position yourself in front of the bar. You’ll have streams of people walking towards you all night! Don’t forget to eventually let them get their drink, however.
Similarly, there are a plethora of ways to exit a conversation. You can harken back to your contact’s prior wish to “meet new people” and say that since you don’t want to stand in the way of their objective, you should part ways. You could also ask if there’s anyone they’ve talked to tonight that you should meet. If there is, use that opportunity to exit that conversation and enter another — with the help of a warm introduction. You can also do this for them. Further, if someone new enters your conversation, you can use that as an opportunity to leave. Last, you can always say you have to freshen up your drink: trust me, it always works.
As helpful as the above tips are, the opening point still holds. Networking is difficult because it forces you to be vulnerable. Whether you’re learning a new sport or going out on a first date, it’s never easy to step outside of your comfort zone. That said, by following the strategies shared by Ms. Thomas and myself, networking events will be a lot more enjoyable — not to mention helpful for your career. Not only will you meet lots of great people, but it can serve as an invaluable fountain of information about your industry. If you’re interested in learning more about networking tips from Ms. Thomas or her book, Win/Win Networking, please visit www.Teresa-Thomas.com.
