8 Tips to Slay at Your Next Networking Event

We always hear about how important networking is, especially when just starting your career or moving into a new field. But let’s be real, going to networking events is not easy and can even be intimidating for many of us. We’ve all been there: you had some awkward conversations and didn’t make any connections with anyone you talked to, so you decided to stick with your friends for the rest of the event. At the end you wonder, “Are these events really worth it??”

The answer is YES. Most of us feel uncomfortable at the first several networking events — it takes time and practice to figure out how to start a conversation and build relationships. While you shouldn’t give up, here we have some tips for you to succeed at networking.

Manage your expectations. While it’s true that you go to networking events to meet people who can help with your career development, don’t expect that everyone you meet will be “useful” or that you will get a job from a single event (although that happens sometimes). Instead, try to think of it as an opportunity to learn from people of different backgrounds. You can set a small goal for each networking event, such as to meet more female entrepreneurs or meet two new people. It can give you a clear mind and guide your conversation.

You get AND you give. Networking isn’t just about what you get out of building relationships, but also what you can do to help other people build their networks, careers, etc. So keep in mind, this is a two-way street!

Be there early. When you hesitate to go to a networking event, you may procrastinate and show up late. However, it’s better to be there early when you want an easy start. At the beginning of the event, people haven’t settled in groups yet, so it’s easier for you to find other people and get conversations rolling.

Set a time limit. Following the last tip, don’t be intimidated by the idea that you have to be there early and stay through the whole event. You can only hang out for an hour or any chunk of time you feel comfortable with. Set a limit to take the stress out, and you can be present and enjoy the conversations while you are there.

Tell your personal story. Your stories are what make you special and interesting. So instead of telling people what you do and what achievements you have made, share fun stories about you and why you love what you are doing. People love hearing stories, and your stories can attract other people who share your passions or interests — that’s how sustainable connections are built.

Be engaged. It is not easy to plan for a good conversation with someone you know nothing about yet. You were probably thinking how to make the conversation interesting and impress others, and you ended up missing what they said. People can tell if they have your full attention, so it is crucial to stop the conversation in your mind and focus on the conversation in front of you. If you are worried about developing the conversation, prepare some open-ended questions in your back pocket.

Take notes. After talking to all the people you met, you would probably forget who said what, so it can be helpful to write them down. After several rounds of conversations, find a corner of the room and take some notes on the back of each person’s business card about who (s)he is, what you talked about, and how you want to follow up. It can save you a lot of time after the event.

Follow up afterward. Maybe a whole evening of networking has exhausted you, but do take some time afterward to send emails to the people you connect with — after all, you don’t want your efforts wasted. It is important to personalize each email, mentioning some highlights in your conversation and letting them know you enjoyed talking with them.

Last but not least, practice more! It is the only way you can really master the art of networking and build your connections.

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