Quelles sont les meilleures façons de réseauter lors d’une conférence ou d’un salon professionnel ?

You can't have everyone at your dinner table. You likewise can't chat up everyone at a conference — nor would you want to. Make a realistic goal on how many new people you'd like to meet. For me, it's usually around three. Then, try to make it worth both of your time. People who struggle with small talk usually struggle with big talk too. Know when it's time to meet someone else.

This is HUGE. If you don't set a goal, your experience may not be as focused, and you may not make the most use of your valuable time. My goal was always that I wanted to connect with at least 3 people and have meaningful conversations, exchanges, and even follow-ups. Plus, I always wanted to walk away with at least one client so my trip will be paid for before I leave. Other goals would be to come away with a better understanding of the subject matter. Lastly, I'd make sure my website was up-to-date. I had business cards with a QR code to connect with folks. I'm always thinking about how to build my email list and come away with valuable connections. Reaching out to my friends to see if they're going and connect with them, too.

This works out totally well, especially if your goal is to meet and connect with one of the speakers. Doing your homework is key. Also, connect with people in your network to see if they can get you an intro. Or look at who you know who's attending the event that can connect you. Or, what I've done many times is wait after the speaker came off the stage and connected directly with them. Having that knowledge and research is huge. It's about how I can help them and how much I resonate with their story, message, vision, values, etc.

Being able to have this sentence memorized will totally help you -- Fill this in - I help people------------(insert dream client info), be/do/have-------------(the value I provide them), so that----------------(the result they REALLY want).“ Example filled in - I help mindful (purpose-driven) entrepreneurs create meaningful connections with their dream clients, grounded in authenticity and integrity, to consistently stand out in a crowded market.

Do know about the big guns coming for the event. Read some serious stuff about them and their work. When meeting them at the event, always interact with them based on their expertise rather general chit-chat. Show them that you admire their work.

I've made so many connections and long time friends by going into an event with a giving and kind attitude. It's also about listening and being present, not just about offering solutions. Ask them if they have an issue that they want to have a quick brainstorm session about. Remember, everyone wants to be seen, noticed and feel like you care. It's not ever about you and what you want. Once you help someone get what they want, you will always get what you want.

Personally, I found that focusing on quality over quantity when networking at conferences or trade shows is best. Rather than trying to meet as many people as possible, prioritize engaging in meaningful conversations with individuals relevant to your goals.

I wrote a whole article on this. These little tips helped me kill my nerves and create some amazing connections. Check my profile for the whole thing, but here's a little hack that I think does wonders - carry gum. After a coffee or meal break, get out your gum and offer a piece to whoever is standing nearest. Boom. Ice broken, and now you can talk about how there's never gum at these things, and wow someone could make a killing just selling gum.