You're going to a networking event. How can you make the most of it?

Most large conferences and industry events are designed in such a way as to create intrinsic FOMO - you can't attend multiple tracks of events, or meet everyone you'd like to connect with in person. That's why it's essential to get clear on your objectives in advance, to make the most of the live face time. Research the sessions, the speakers, the delegates. Bookmark essential events, and connect with those you really want to meet well ahead of the event to schedule time for that crucial coffee.

Investigate the speakers, attendees, and agenda for the event in advance. Establish specific objectives for yourself, such as networking, learning from professionals in the field, or looking into possible joint ventures. To enhance conversations, show genuine interest in other people, pay attention to what they have to say, and pose insightful questions. Be ready to speak confidently about your own experience, abilities, and objectives. Give people you connect with your contact details, and promptly follow up following the event to continue building relationships.

Come with an excitement to meet people. Go alone so you don’t just hang with the people you already know. Don’t expect anything from others, just be curious about them and enjoy being in the moment. Networking without expecting (yes I mean without!) something from the other person leaves open so many more doors.

Auf Networking Events trifft der Satz zu: "Rausgehen ist wie Fenster aufmachen, nur krasser!" Die Frage ist also: wie kann ich mich einbringen, um das Treffen zu einer schönen Erinnerung zu machen? Wenn mir das gelingt, werde ich ein Teil dieser Erinnerung. 🕺 Ziel erreicht.

Define Objectives: Clearly set your goals for the event. Whether it's to connect with potential clients, collaborators, or mentors, having a clear purpose guides your interactions.

Before you head to any event or networking opportunity, update your own profile online. It is very common these days that people look you up online after meeting you. Important part is to look the part online too. The goal should always be to show genuine interest in others and 'discover' the WWH - who they are, what the do and how they do it.

Ao participar de um evento, pesquise sobre os palestrantes e empresas participantes para planejar abordagens que te proporcionem contato direto com pessoas interessantes ao seu negócio e/ou área de atuação. Tenha sempre em mente que conectar-se é um passo inicial para conseguir apoio e parceiros para suas ideias e projeto, permitindo desenvolvimento de parcerias duradouras a partir deste contato, que pode parecer pequeno, mas pode fazer muita diferença.

Ditch the basic, "what do you do?" and ask something along the lines of, "what excites you most about your work?" or "what does a typical day look like for you?" And, of course, follow-up and personalize the message. This is where you're tested on your active listening - practice it!

Identify your goals when attending the event. Whether you want to find potential clients, build relationships with colleagues, or learn new knowledge. Research about the speakers and attendees of the event as well as preparing questions to talk to new people.

Define the purpose of connecting with someone new - is it to discuss industry trends, get advice, or explore partnership opportunities? Establishing intent informs my approach. Research attendees and companies ahead of time to ID ideal targets. This allows me to be strategic in who I approach and what conversations I initiate. Set metric-based goals around number of quality conversations, connections made, next steps secured, etc. Quantifying goals tracks progress and ensures valuable time investment. Having clarity around why I'm there and what I want to accomplish maximizes my chances for meaningful interactions.

Don't limit your research to just understanding the content that the speaker or attendees will share or find relevant. Instead, focus on finding ways to make the biggest impact on their memory. While others are simply trying to strike up conversations, consider what you can leave behind to ensure they remember you. Can you prepare thought-provoking questions that challenge the status quo? Do you have unique opinions or perspectives that differ from others? Take the opportunity to stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Know Attendees: Research the event and its attendees in advance. Identify key individuals you want to meet, learn about their background, and understand their professional interests.

Review the attendee list and pinpoint individuals I want to connect with. Research their roles, interests, and pain points to prepare informed talking points. Brush up on event sponsors and partners so I understand their offerings in case strategic opportunities arise. Check the event hashtag and threads about the conference on platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. This provides insight into real-time conversations to jump into. Doing my homework sets me up for more meaningful interactions during chance encounters and arranged meetings. It also allows me to contribute more value to others.

Questions serves as a guiding light, illuminating the motivations behind our desire to participate. Is it driven by genuine interest in the subject matter? Are we seeking knowledge, inspiration, or networking opportunities? Understanding the motives will enable to derive maximum value from the event. Just like knowing details about a movie such as its theme, cast, writers, singers etc. can help you connect with others who share your interests, similarly, researching the event's speakers, organizers, agenda, and content shared on social media and forums can deepen your understanding of the event and increase your enthusiasm for attending.

If you have a chance to know the exact people who are coming to the event or at least their profiles and social statuses, it will help you prepare an elevator pitch suitable for this specific audience, and some strong conversation openers. By knowing their interests and a bit about their personal lives you can also open more friendly conversation and catch their attention by showing that you care.

Do Your Research Learn about the event, its theme, and who’s attending. Research the speakers, companies, and industries represented. This prep work enables you to target relevant contacts and engage in meaningful conversations.

As a guest attending an event, sometimes it is more than just bringing your business card along and chatting to people. You may need to be prepared to go through a presentation or lecture, perhaps the gathering is themed to a specific course and it's wise to be knowledgable of that. It shows cognisance

Dich 'proaktiv' auf einem Netzwerk-Event zu geben, fühlt sich irgendwie unangenehm und 'komisch' an? SUPER. Dann hast du alles, was du brauchst, um neue Kontakte zu knüpfen – indem du jemandem sagst, dass es dir unangenehm und ein bisschen 'komisch' vorkommt. Versuche es EINMAL und siehe, was passiert. Es wirkt IMMER. 🏆

Initiate Conversations: Take the initiative to start conversations. Approach individuals or groups with a friendly introduction and express genuine interest in their work or experiences.

I find it easier to approach a group with a simple, "mind if I join?" If you pass by a huddle that has an interesting conversation going and has room for one more, go for it. Most people are also feeling a bit awkward and interjecting is more or less expected.

Be Proactive Don't wait for others to approach you. Initiate conversations, join groups discussing interesting topics, and introduce yourself confidently. Show genuine interest in others by asking questions and listening actively.

Don't hesitate to start a conversation with new people. Take the initiative to introduce yourself and ask about their work. It's important that you listen carefully to what others say and show interest in them. Then, find common ground with the people you meet to easily share your knowledge and experience with others.

Here are things I always do to be proactive: Seek out fresh faces in the room and make friendly small talk to break the ice before diving into business conversations. Approaching others first makes a memorable impression. Volunteer myself as a connector - if I meet someone with common interests, I introduce them to each other. This level of service earns goodwill. Scan name badges as I mingling and jot down new contacts. Then I follow up the same day via email or social media to solidify the relationship while the interaction is fresh. Taking the initiative to meet people expands my network while helping others grow theirs. The connections made will certainly pay future dividends.

O primeiro ponto é se mostrar disponível a conhecer pessoas. Para isso, cumprimentá-las com um sorriso e fazer perguntas que mostre seu interesse em conhecê-las: você trabalha com quê? Como é a sua rotina? Há grande chances de surgir um ponto em comum - uma pessoa conhecida, um desafio, uma ferramenta - que vai possibilitar que a conversa siga adiante. Depois, lembre-se de adicionar o perfil nessa rede para manter a troca! 😀

The true essence of our presence lies not merely in attendance but in our active participation. Merely being physically present does not guarantee meaningful engagement; it's the depth of our interactions and the sincerity of our contributions that enrich the collective experience. Whether we're posing questions during a discussion or sharing personal anecdotes during a networking session, our willingness to engage authentically fuels the spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding.

Exchange Information Always have business cards or a digital equivalent ready to share. When exchanging information, make a note of key details about the conversation and the person’s interests for future reference.

Be Approachable: Smile, make eye contact, and exude positivity. Approach others with genuine interest and listen actively to what they have to say.

"Hey, are you on LinkedIn?" Open your LinkedIn app, look at the search bar and click the bar code icon on the right side. Ask your new acquaintance to do the same. You can then scan each other's LinkedIn bar code link to connect on the spot. Send them a quick message like "Great meeting you at the event today" so it's in their inbox. It's nifty feature that LinkedIn provides so you don't have to carry business cards.

Effective Networking: Share your contact information and collect business cards. Clearly communicate what you do and express your interest in potential collaborations or future discussions.

Coming back from a networking event without some phone numbers, emails, and LinkedIn profiles connected, means you have wasted your time and are missing out on big opportunities. The idea of a networking event is to connect people and pave the way for fruitful long-lasting relationships that could benefit both parties.

Always come in prepared with a supply of business cards or a digital alternative like a QR code to easily share my contact details when meeting potential connections. Capture key details about each contact in my phone or notepad app while conversations are fresh. These notes help personalize and add context to follow ups. Offer something of value like an introduction to an industry expert or a relevant article when closing out a chat. This plants the seed for an ongoing reciprocal relationship. Providing and gathering actionable personal details and next steps demonstrates genuine interest in continuing the relationship beyond the event doors.

During networking events, exchanging information is crucial for meaningful connections. Just as discussing a movie's theme, cast, and creators sparks conversation, sharing details about event speakers, organizers, and agenda facilitates engaging interactions. This exchange not only fosters connections but also enhances understanding and enthusiasm for the event. By exchanging insights and experiences, attendees enrich each other's perspectives, paving the way for fruitful collaborations and lasting relationships. Allowing for future connect via exchange of business cards and social media.

In the marketing/ advertising field, attending networking events and 'hosting' these events are one of the best ways to connect with people and meet new people/businesses. The company I work for hosts First Thursdays every month and invites current clients to maintain the business relationship and showcase new innovation/developments in our company they may not have known of. It's awesome

Here’s a hot tip for the forgetful among us: When chatting with someone you want to keep in touch with post-event, make sure to snag their contact info. Right after your conversation take a minute to shoot over a quick message saying hi, remind them of the topic of your chat, and who you are. Don’t wait until post-event. This little power move is a lifesaver for the forgetful and really highlights your enthusiasm!

Remember, as the event wraps up, the real work begins. Follow-up is crucial for nurturing connections made during the networking event. Whether it's through email, LinkedIn, or a personalized message, reaching out reaffirms your interest and lays the foundation for future collaboration. Keep the momentum going by expressing gratitude for their time and reiterating key points discussed. This proactive approach not only strengthens relationships but also fosters opportunities for growth and partnership.

Following up seems so simple but it is an absolute necessity if you want to turn quick conversations into real connections. However you and the other person exchanged information, be it email, LinkedIn, or something else, take a few minutes over the next few days to send a personalized follow-up. If you agreed to meet up again or wanted to start sharing resources, kick that off then. A word of caution — I recommend reaching out once afterward and following up once after that, but then letting it drop. If you don't hear back then it's better to make more connections than to continue reaching out to the same person with no response.

Timely Communication: Send personalized follow-up emails or LinkedIn messages within a few days. Reference your conversation and express your interest in staying connected.

Following up after networking events is absolutely vital for reaping any benefits from them. It's not just about making initial connections; following up is what truly solidifies those connections and keeps the momentum going. Prompt follow-ups demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, and a genuine interest in nurturing professional relationships. Plus, they help steer the conversation towards potential opportunities or collaborations. Without follow-up, you're essentially missing out on the full potential of networking events.

Follow Up After the event, reach out to the people you met with personalized messages. Mention specific details from your conversation to show attentiveness. Propose a next step, like meeting for coffee, if you see potential for a beneficial relationship.

Following up is a very crucial part of networking, especially when you go to an in-person event. It doesn't have to be anything too detailed, but even just a "nice to meet you at the event, hope to continue the conversation." I'd also bring up something you talked about. I would also recommend not reaching out immediately after but perhaps the next day in the afternoon, just to give yourself some time to reflect. It's important to share what you took away from the meeting, and what you think about it. Offer an opinion, and don't be afraid to be "wrong." Also, please give an idea of what your goals are for connecting and what next steps would look like for you.

Continuing to maintain relationships is important. You can connect with them on social media or invite them to another event or a coffee meeting. If both of you have the same interests and career direction, or anything really, maintaining the connection is very easy, it's like fish meeting water.

Networking-Events sind ein Baustein der dir begegnenden Menschen auf der Reise zu einer gemeinsamen Interaktion. Wer eine CRM [Kontakt-Datenbank] pflegt, kann bei sich bietender Gelegenheit einen Gruß senden oder zeigen, dass man die andere Person im Sinn hat. www.notion.so ist ein geeignetes Werkzeug dazu. TIPP! ☝️

Nurture Connections: Regularly engage with your new connections. Share relevant updates, offer assistance, or express interest in their work. Consistent communication strengthens relationships.

Keep in Touch Maintain your new connections by checking in periodically. Share relevant articles, congratulate them on professional achievements, or invite them to other networking events. Regular, meaningful interactions help build long-term relationships.

I am wary of those new connections adding me to their newsletters or groups because it just feels impersonal. This is unfortunately happening a lot. If I meet people in person and see the potential of exploring possibilities, then I connect with them on LinkedIn with personalised message and thereafter follow-up with a meeting with clear topic of discussion. Time is a very valuable resource today and it is best that meetings after networking connecting is of value to both you and your new connection.

This is by far the most important step after a networking event, which is touching base on the discussions had at the event, planning another meet up, sharing the information as promised. It shows consistency and accountability.

Can't attend because the event is abroad? Reach out to the speakers, participants, sponsors, and everyone you would have loved to meet anyway. Engage them before, during and after the event - you can do all of that from your desktop, very focused. You may even be more present to the people that matter to your goals than if you were onsite trying not to waste your time with people you do not want to network with there.

Auf Networking-Events ergibt sich oft die Gelegenheit zu einer Kurzvorstellung. Hier ist eine gute Formel, um dich zu präsentieren: "Ich helfe [meinen 𝗭𝗜𝗘𝗟𝗞𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗡] dabei, [ein ersehntes 𝗘𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗕𝗡𝗜𝗦] zu erreichen, ohne dass sie [an dieser 𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗥𝗘] scheitern – indem ich [mein 𝗥𝗘𝗭𝗘𝗣𝗧 anwende] und [diesen 𝗔𝗨𝗙𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗚] bewirke." 🔌 In einem Satz kannst du so alles sagen, was wichtig ist.

Prepare your elevator pitch and ask open-ended questions: Create a short and exciting introduction about yourself. Talk about your skills, experiences, and what you love doing. Be prepared to share this when someone asks about your work. But also ask questions that need more than a yes or no answer. For example, ask why they are at the event, what they do at their job, and most importantly, what significant issues they are dealing with in their work. This way, you can have better conversations and connect more with people.

I think it’s important to be confident when attending a networking event. Exude confidence before you walk into a room- hold your head high, shoulders back, wearing clothing you feel comfortable in that is also professional. Body language is also important. You want to be seen as approachable- smile, don’t cross your arms on your chest, have open palms. Lastly, think about how you can help them versus how they can help you. Not only will you stand out to them, but they will want to help you in return.

Get there on time, you can even help the organizers to setup the venue if you are permitted. 2. Make sure you are properly dressed for the event. 3. Look for a strategic place to sit and pay attention. 4. When it's time for questions and contributions, leverage on that opportunity to introduce yourself and talk about what you do.

Create content at the event. Film the process, the room, get pictures with people and share your experience on LinkedIn. Then continue to create content after the event to engage the new connections you made

Be prepared and have your one liner ready. You may have 1 or 2 minutes to share what to do so you want to be precise and detailed enough for people to learn enough about you. Also, in some events they allow you to share any freebies or upcoming program details with others, so it is a good idea know what you want to share (marketing strategy) and have that information already written to copy and paste when prompted.

Elevator Pitch: Prepare a concise and compelling elevator pitch that summarizes who you are, what you do, and what value you bring. Tailor it to the audience and context of the event.