Discover how to make the most of networking events with expert tips on how to network effectively, what to wear to a networking event, and how to build meaningful business connections.
Networking events. Just hearing the phrase can evoke feelings of dread, anxiety, and awkwardness. If the thought of mingling at business networking events, making small talk, and swapping business cards fills you with unease, you’re certainly not alone. Many professionals, from seasoned executives to recent graduates, admit they dislike networking, finding it superficial or exhausting.
Yet, despite these reservations, event networking remains vital. Around 70% of jobs are filled through networking, and nearly 80% of professionals view it as essential to career success. Clearly, building meaningful professional relationships matters profoundly, even if you secretly dread it. In this guide, we’ll delve into how to network, best event networking practices, and debunk some of the networking myths that may be putting you off from properly utilising it.
Debunking Networking Myths
To make networking events feel less daunting, let’s address some common misconceptions:
- Myth 1: “Networking is slimy self-promotion.”
Reality: Genuine networking is about building real connections by helping others and sharing knowledge. Focus on giving rather than receiving. - Myth 2: “Only extroverts can network well.”
Reality: Introverts can excel at networking by leveraging strengths like listening and deep conversations. It is likely the the case that as an introvert, you may thrive in one-to-one conversations. Networking events don’t mean having to participate in large group discussions. Finally, being authentic is far more impactful than feigning extroversion. - Myth 3: “Networking equals big events and superficial small talk.”
Reality: Networking events can occur in small groups, coffee chats, or even casual conversations within your organisation. Engage in meaningful dialogues to create lasting connections.
Preparing for Networking Success
Reducing anxiety starts with preparation. Here’s how:
- Be Selective: Attend networking events relevant to your interests or industry. It’s easier and more natural to engage with people sharing common ground.
- Set Clear Objectives: Knowing your goals clarifies why you’re attending a business networking event. Whether you’re seeking insights, new clients, or peer connections, a clear purpose can boost your confidence.
- Set Small Goals: Aim to have one or two meaningful conversations rather than overwhelming yourself. Quality always beats quantity.
- Research Attendees: Check networking event attendee lists or LinkedIn profiles beforehand. Familiarity helps initiate conversations naturally.
- Perfect Your Introduction: Create a concise, interesting personal introduction that sparks curiosity and dialogue. Practice it until comfortable.
- Prepare Icebreakers: Have a few ready-to-go questions that can smoothly initiate conversations, avoiding awkward silences. Consider asking about the event itself, mutual contacts, or industry trends.
How to Navigate Networking Events With Ease
Once at the networking event, use these strategies to manage your anxiety and engage effectively:
- Start Small: Approach individuals or small groups first, these interactions are less intimidating and more welcoming.
- Project Confidence: Even if you’re nervous, maintain open body language, smile, and make eye contact. Confidence can grow simply by appearing confident initially.
- Listen More Than You Speak: Active listening is a powerful networking skill. Show genuine curiosity about others’ roles, interests, and experiences.
- Keep Conversations Positive: Focus on shared interests or professional topics rather than controversial issues or complaints.
- Manage Your Time: Conversations of 5-10 minutes are usually ideal. If a connection feels valuable, suggest continuing the dialogue later.
- Use Existing Connections: Recognising someone familiar or mutual acquaintances creates immediate rapport and comfort.
- Be Authentic: People value authenticity. Be yourself, whether you’re witty, insightful, or simply quietly attentive.
- Offer Value: Look for opportunities to assist others with advice, resources, or introductions. Networking events are most rewarding when you are reciprocal.
- Dress the Part: Not sure what to wear to a networking event? Go for smart, comfortable, and confident – something that fits the tone of the occasion without feeling like a costume.
What to Do After the Networking Event
The real power of event networking lies in follow-up actions:
- Quick, Personalised Messages: Send a brief, thoughtful note via email or LinkedIn within a couple of days after the networking event, referencing something specific from your conversation.
- Stay Connected on LinkedIn: Regularly engage with new contacts online by liking posts, sharing relevant articles, or commenting thoughtfully.
- Consistent Communication: Maintain connections with occasional messages, sharing industry news, future networking events, or congratulating achievements.
- Express Gratitude: Always thank people who help you or offer valuable advice. Genuine appreciation strengthens professional relationships.
Embracing Networking on Your Terms
What is a networking event? It’s simply a space – formal or informal – where people gather to exchange ideas, support, and opportunities. And you don’t have to fit a mould to succeed in them.
Networking doesn’t have to be an intimidating, exhausting chore. By approaching it as genuine relationship-building and applying thoughtful strategies, you can greatly enhance your comfort and effectiveness.
Remember these key networking takeaways:
- Mindset Matters: Reframe networking events as opportunities to build human connections.
- Preparation is Key: Reduce anxiety by having clear goals and prepared conversational tools.
- Prioritise Quality Over Quantity: Focus on making meaningful, lasting connections.
- Leverage Personal Strengths: Network authentically, according to your personality.
- Follow Up Consistently: Cultivate connections beyond the initial meeting to build lasting professional relationships.
Networking events might never become your favourite activity, but it can undoubtedly become more manageable and rewarding. By following these strategies, you’ll soon see event networking not as something to dread, but as an empowering aspect of your professional journey.
A networking event is a gathering designed to help professionals meet, share ideas, and build connections that can lead to career opportunities, partnerships, or mentorship.
Preparation includes setting clear goals, researching attendees, perfecting your introduction, and planning conversation starters to reduce anxiety and increase confidence.
Dress smartly and comfortably, matching the event’s tone. Business casual is often appropriate, but when in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Introverts can excel by focusing on one-on-one conversations, active listening, and leveraging their authenticity instead of trying to be overly outgoing.
Following up with personalised messages helps cement new relationships, opens doors for collaboration, and turns brief meetings into lasting professional connections.
Download our latest report to explore the latest event solutions, learn how event production agencies are leveraging technology for seamless conference planning, and uncover strategies to enhance hybrid event management.
