Networking 101

I’m sure you’ve heard about all the benefits about networking so I won’t go into that here. Assuming that you understand how networking can elevate your career, connections and personal brand I’ll dive into what to do when you finally get to a networking event.

1. Before you go, learn about the event. What type of people will be there? (Gender, ethnicity, industry, career level, etc) Will there be food or should you eat before? (You don’t want your stomach grumbling loudly as you’re trying to make a first impression) Will you be asked to stand-up and give a pitch about yourself/service? What floor/room is the event in? What is the dress code?If you don’t know what to wear, it’s always better to OVER dress than to under dress for the occasion.
2. Hygiene and breath check. Make sure you’ve got some fresh deodorant on, perfume/cologne (not too much) and fresh breath. Also, don’t look like you came straight from working out. Don’t scare people off before you have a chance to show off all your awesomeness.
3. Business Cards. Bring plenty of business cards (if you have them). If you do not have business cards, that’s okay; make sure you get their card. For some millennials, they rely on social media connections as their “business card.” If you get asked for a business card simply respond, “I actually don’t have any on me at the moment (no further explanation needed), do you have a card and I can send you my information in an email?” Then make sure you actually follow up.
4. Remember Names. Not every event will have name tags for everyone; if they do then that’s one less worry for you. When you’re beginning a conversation with someone, once you get their name; say their name at least THREE times in the sentences to follow. This will help you to remember their name. When you’re done, write the name down in your phone with a description so you remember. If you ever forget someone’s name, then here is a trick to get it back. You need to have someone else come into the conversation and introduce themselves to each person. Pay attention when they say their name again. Also, now you have to remember the name of the new person you brought into the conversation. “The sweetest sound to anyone’s ears is the sound of their own name.” -Robert C. Lee
5. BeOther-Oriented NOT Self-Oriented. There is no need for you to jump right into your career or expertise at the beginning of a conversation. Nor do you need to ask right away what others do for a living. It’s a networking event- trust me it will come up. Instead take interest and learn about the person in front of you, this is how you utilize the “other-oriented” rule.
6. The Drink Rule. Having a drink in your hand gives you a natural stance when talking to someone. Then you don’t have to fidget and wonder “what the hell do I do with my hands?!” I’d recommend TWO drinks at a networking event amongst people you don’t know whom you’re trying to have a great first impression on. Drink the first one and sip the second. You know your limits better than me, but I wouldn’t push on the verge of tipsy when your purpose is business.
7. Treat everyone you meet as a person and not as an opportunity for your personal gain. Invest your time in learning about them, finding common connections, interests, and hobbies. You only have a few minutes with each person; people won’t remember much about you, but they’ll remember how you made them feel when you took a genuine interest in their life. Also, make eye contact.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” –Maya Angelou

Topics to avoid when first meeting someone you don’t know: politics, controversial issues, TMI (too much information) stories, status/income level, etc

Safe conversation starters:

1. Do you come to these networking events a lot?
2. Do you know anyone else here?
3. Hello (insert name) tell me a little about yourself
4. (Insert name) when you’re not at networking events what do you like to do for fun?
5. What brings you joy?

The key is to take interest in the person’s life you’re engaging with at that time. Try to find as many similarities as you can. People open-up quicker when they feel a connection or similarity to someone else. Now there will be that 1 out of 20 times that you will come in contact with a narcissist. This is when you save your bathroom dip out excuse. If you are taking an interest and learning about the other person and they don’t ask you anything about yourself for five minutes, you’re safe to start planning to dip out of the conversation.

Networking events are usually only two hours long. Depending on how big the event is your time is limited. You can’t get to everyone. Have a plan. Would you rather briefly meet as many people as you can and gather business cards like you’re on Supermarket Sweep or would you rather have deeper conversations and form relationships with a handful of people?

If there is one person at the event that you want to speak to, but that everyone else also wants to speak to there are a couple of ways to catch them with no crowd. The first is in the bathroom, don’t be a stalker, but if you “happen” to be using the restroom at the same time and leave at the same time you can start a conversation before the wolves come back. Also, hanging out by where the drinks or food are served is an opportunity that you can be a good spot for conversations.

If you’re trying to be ambitious and want to speak to the keynote speaker, first off- do your research. Know who they are, what they’ve done and have a reason for taking their precious time. Since you’ve done your research you will know what they look like, try to talk to them BEFORE they get on stage. Majority of people are more eager to speak with someone after they’ve heard their mission, thoughts, accomplishments, advice etc. know all of that before hand and start a conversation before if possible.

When leaving the event, it always leaves a great impression to say good-bye to people you met by using their name and referencing something you discussed: “Hey Stephanie, it was great meeting you this evening. Best of luck on your presentation tomorrow. We’ll have to set up a time to get a mini tennis match in soon!”

Lastly, FOLLOW UP. FOLLOW UP. FOLLOW UP!

The next day it is vital to the survival of your new relationship that you follow-up, remind them who you are and thank them for their time, advice, etc. If you don’t take the time to follow-up you have more than likely wasted your time attending a networking event.

You now have been equipped with networking advice 101. Go out and conquer the world.

This story is published in The Startup, Medium’s largest entrepreneurship publication followed by +418,678 people.

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