Networking Tips

Love them or hate them, networking events are a must to grow our networks and businesses. Here are tips to make that next event a little more worthwhile.

Registration

• If the registration list is published online, peruse it before the event.
• If not, get to the event early and check out the name tags laid out at the registration table.
• Use those resources to pinpoint folks you want to connect with and look up them up. Social media gives you a sense of their recent work and allows for easy conversation starters.

Business Cards

• Bring lots of them.
• Only get business cards from those you actually want to get to know better. And get to know folks before passing out your card, otherwise you’re not being strategic.

Chit chat

• Make your rounds and say “hello” to pros you already know. This allows you to reconnect with folks, and potentially meet new folks they’re currently speaking with.
• Ask the pros you already know about the ones you pinpointed earlier. Then, ask them to introduce you.
• If not, ask, “Is there anyone here you think I should know?”

Follow up

• Ideally, within 24 hours to ensure the best likelihood of jogging someone’s memory.
• Get to the point in your email and clearly state your reason. Are you emailing to say hello and add that new person to your list? Are you emailing because you want a face-to-face meeting? Are you connecting for a walkthrough or to visit their space?
• Follow up with the organizers, as well. They’ll appreciate your thank you. Additionally, they can help connect you with folks you weren’t able to meet during the event.