do these 4 things before you go to a networking event
traditional networking can feel intimidating. but if you’re prepared, it can also be productive and fun.
i know that feeling of walking into a room full of strangers who all seem comfortable being there and seem to know everyone else in the room (you feel like an outsider). a pit grows in your stomach as you think back to middle school and those awkward feelings you thought you’d never have to relive.
the good news is, it doesn’t need to be this way (and those are stories you’re telling yourself, not facts).
when people go to networking events, they’re there because they want to meet new people (and will likely feel relieved if you take the initiative to start a conversion). remembering that can be a great way to diffuse your doubt.
before you attend your next event, consider these tips:
know your goals. it’s important for you to know why you’re going in the first place. is it to meet one person in particular; to interact with a specific industry; to simply mingle and let serendipity run its course; to catch up with people you already know in an efficient manner; and/or to casually get to know people in your community? whatever your goals are, identify them. it will help shape which events you attend, what you do when you’re there, and the conversations you have.
do your research. do some research on the organization that is putting on the event. what types of people typically attend? does their demographic seem like a good fit for the types of people you’re looking to meet? if so, do they offer any lists for you to see who will be attending or who has attended in the past? find out who organizes the event and do a little research on them, if possible.
find the organizer. when you arrive, ask the people at the registration table who the event organizer is. if you’ve already done your homework, you’ll know a bit about them and what they look like. seek them out and introduce yourself. feel free to let them know what motivated you to attend in case they can help you with your goals that evening.
scout a location. it can be tempting to stay close to the entrance but it’s actually best to hang out off of a corner of the bar (if there is one). realistically, most people go straight for the bar when they get to an event for a safe haven and to take the edge off. this gives you an opportunity to speak with them while they wait or when they have a drink in hand and are looking to find someone with whom to speak.
next week, i’ll share some tips on what to do after you’ve attended to maximize the initial interactions you had.