How to be a Star at Your Next Networking Event

Got a few important work events coming up, including our upcoming Aspire+? We get it if you tend to shy away from being in the limelight but hear us out: Networking events are the best places to get to know industry players, like-minded individuals, and hey who knows, even your next employer!

The toughest part about standing out is to shift your mindset on wanting to do it. Once you’ve set your mind to really work the crowd at your next networking event, it’s all natural and easy with these tips.

#1 Put away your phone
Because it’s easy to just stare at your phone the whole time you are there and not do what you’re supposed to – network! When people see you looking at your phone, they automatically think you’re busy and not interested in being part of the event. Leave your phone in your bag so you won’t be tempted to scan it every few minutes or when a new message comes in. This way, you’ll be 100% focused on personally connecting with other people in the room.

#2 Have a good intro ready
Make it short but make it good. So you see a group of people already having a good time and want to jump in. You don’t want to just barge in but you want to walk up, make eye contact and say, “Mind if I join you guys?” Now, most people will say sure because that’s the thing to say and if they ask you for some backgrounder, have that ready so you don’t get caught off guard. State your name, what you do, and what brings you to the event.

#3 Don’t be the “mic” hogger
In other words, don’t be the one doing all of the talking and none of the listening. Conversations with new people are how you find out more about each other. But if only one party is talking, where’s the value for the other person? You are at a networking event to expand your network, get to know others. Not there to tell everyone your life story.

#4 Assume people like you
Because why shouldn’t they! But if you go into a networking event wondering what people will think of you, you’re automatically shutting yourself into a corner where you don’t want to network but just want to leave when the event is over. Change your mindset to “I’m likeable” and see how that gives you more confidence in initiating a conversation.

#5 Show enthusiasm
Even if you’re not that interested in the topic, show that you are! Be interested in what another person is saying. Listen actively and ask questions. He or she will be flattered by your attention – and who knows, this person might just be the liaison you need for your next big deal or job!

#6 Drop a hello afterwards
A few days after the event, drop a hi, how are you email to the person you’ve been talking to. This is to continue the connection you had at the event, and also serves as a reminder to the other person that hey, it’s you, remember? It’s a great way to stay on top of mind and when the next networking event comes along, things won’t be so awkward when you meet up again!

Photo by Akson on Unsplash.