You’re about to attend a networking event. What are the best ways to make it a success?

One thing I think many newcomers to networking forget is that you’re at a networking event. Everyone is there for the same purpose! There’s no need to be shy or reserved, everyone there to meet new people! You should feel comfortable walking up to anyone you’re interested in speaking with.

As a SaaS sales leader, I view every networking event as an opportunity to build relationships that could lead to partnerships, customer referrals, or sales. The key is being strategic in how you approach the event. To make the most of a networking event: Set a goal, whether it's making 5 solid connections or learning 3 new industry trends, so you have a focus Research the attendee list and make a short list of people you want to meet based on potential for mutual value. Practice your introduction and key talking points so you make a great first impression and articulate your value prop concisely. The relationships you build at events can become incredibly valuable assets. Approach them with clear objectives and a give-first mentality.

Let's keep it simple. Know who you are, what you want to accomplish, and most importantly with who. If you sell cookies, you are probably looking for someone that sells milk. Grab a copy of Think and Grow Rich and let the other person know you are interested in them, what they have to say, and keep it light and playful when possible. After the event, find a way to bring them value and don't ask any cheesy questions or anticipate a way to get something from them. Just do something they value and if they are a good fit for you, they will reciprocate. This is the Hounds of Business Community Way.

It’s not just about selling , it’s about making genuine connections. The ideal way to network is to walk in to the room with a view to learn. Seeking to understand about other networkers and their business. Too many people wait for their moment to speak and launch into a sales pitch, without taking the time to listen and learn. Speak to new people rather than gravitating to those you already know, and arrange 121s outside of the session to further the connections. Now, they may not be your ideal clients, but it’s important to learn about your new connections and help them to understand you and your business too; their clients or connections might just be your ideal clients.

1. Be Genuine:Listen actively, ask insightful questions, and share your own experiences thoughtfully. 2. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity: Rather than trying to meet as many people as possible, prioritize building a few meaningful connections. 3. Offer Value: Find ways to contribute to conversations and offer assistance or insights where you can. 4. Follow Up: After the event, reach out to those you connected with. 5. Be Present: Stay engaged. Show genuine interest in the people you're speaking with, and make them feel valued. Focus on authenticity, quality connections, and mutual value, you'll be well-positioned to make the most of every opportunity to expand your network and foster meaningful relationships.

Have a strategy. Prior to the event, ask for a Delegate List. Highlight your potential Clients then do your homework. Find out their background, their roles, how long they have been in the business, any interests. What schemes or Projects they might be working on. Get their contact details. If you discover they are a key contact, then you set up a follow-up meeting with either them or their colleagues. Have something in the Diary immediately. Remember their name. Take detailed notes and make plans. **Concentrate on listening and understanding**. Good luck!

1Set your goals. Before you attend a networking event, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. 2 Do your research. Once you know your goals, you should do some research on the event and the attendees. 3 Prepare your pitch. 4 Be friendly and curious. 5 Follow up promptly.

The biggest part, is to not go into the event trying to sell things to others. This is not the time to do that. Introduce yourself and find out a little about the person you are talking to.

1. Do your research: Who is attending? Who would I like to speak to? Who can I introduce to one another? 2. Set yourself a target: Eg. Who are the top 3 people I would like to speak to and how can I add value? 3. Self-confidence and self-awareness: Check in with yourself to assess your internal thoughts. Get out of your comfort zone. Going alone forces you to speak to new people. 4. Elevator Pitch: prepare a short, captivating pitch. 5. Be a good listener: 2 ears, one mouth. 6. Follow up: phone call over email

"Preparation is the key to success in any endeavor." - Alexander Graham Bell Research the attendees: Familiarize yourself with the guest list and identify individuals you'd like to connect with. Set clear goals: Determine what you hope to achieve from the event, whether it's making new contacts, seeking advice, or exploring opportunities. Prepare talking points: Have conversation starters and questions ready to engage with others and make meaningful connections. Showcase your expertise: Be ready to share insights and experiences relevant to your field to demonstrate your value to potential contacts. Follow up promptly: After the event, reach out to new connections to express gratitude and continue the conversation.

Crafting a successful networking experience starts with thorough research. Before attending, research the event's agenda, speakers, and attendees. This knowledge arms you with conversation starters and ensures meaningful interactions. Preparation breeds confidence and opens doors to fruitful connections.

Research the guest list prior to attending. Approach new people with a smile and interest in learning who they are and why they are at the networking event. Due to your research you should start with a few people you know a little about. Seek out guests you already know for introductions to attendees they know at the event. Relationships are key and referrals from friends / past clients matter.

In today's fast-paced world, where opportunities abound and decisions are made in the blink of an eye, the importance of research cannot be overstated. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in your career, taking the time to do thorough research can make all the difference in your success. Research isn't just about gathering information; it's about gaining insights, making informed choices, and staying ahead of the curve.

At least have some talking points prepared based on those you're planning to meet, and do some research on companies of those attending, if available. The occasional name drop to show familiarity indicates you're already engaged somewhat with their company. Networking seems like a game, really it's about being genuine and building relationships and finding common topics of conversation. Everyone is in the same boat and are mostly there for the same reason. Just be yourself.

The research phase is about doing your homework. Take note of the agenda and format. Check who is attending the event and what organization is sponsoring it. Look up their backgrounds to identify people to meet with. Keep your background updated on social media sites and dress for success. Plan your approach to initiate meaningful conversations.

As in friendships and love relationships, if you love someone, you want to know EVERYTHING about that someone. You'll do your due diligence instinctually. Same for business! If you want a business relationship, you want to know everything about your target company.... ok, not EVERYTHING, but all relevant information to you. Everything that will help you find common grounds, what they like to see, what they want to hear, what they NEED to find in your company.

I love playing the role of curious, but be the efficient curious person, who already has a base of knowledge, and not the random curious person. The efficient curious person will seek to deepen his knowledge at all times, whether visiting exhibitors' stands, during a lecture he was not so interested in or chatting in a cafe with a colleague. The sparkle in the eye takes us beyond the limits of knowledge!

The key to successful networking is to be sincere. Sincerely get to know those who are attending. Listen sincerely to what they have to say. Be sincere about who you are and what you bring to the table. If you can walk away with one to two meaningful contacts, that deserve a follow-up, one-on-one meeting, you can call that networking event a success. Wash, rinse, repeat!

All pitches are not sales pitches! I believe that every interaction is an opportunity to shine, and when you are genuinely interested in something or someone, the conversations just flow, and you shine bright like a star. However, the importance of having a well-prepared pitch cannot be overstated, especially for those who are not natural conversationalists. While I agree that networking events are generally not the best time for a sales pitch, being prepared with one can be beneficial if someone shows interest. Meaningful and smooth conversations are just the beginning at the end of the day.

In my experience having a “so called pitch” is such an awful idea. Yes you should be able to tell your story and articulate it in a professional yet personal manner, however you don’t want to come across as rehearsed. Spend less time preparing a pitch and more time listening and seeing where the conversation goes.

It's important to remember that a networking event is not a sales meeting. But you should always be prepared to deliver a short and to-the-point elevator pitch that communicates what you do and the products or services you offer. It's advisable to practice your pitch with colleagues or coworkers to improve it. Don't forget to include a call to action at the end of your pitch to encourage the listener to take the next step.

Avoid a one size fits all pitch. Use your story and intertwine this into a genuine conversation you need be able to tell your story in a professional yet personal manner, however you don’t want to come across as rehearsed.

I would actually say don't pitch at a networking event. I'd ask more about the client, what their needs are, and let the conversation flow. If what you have to offer works for them then great. Mention what you can offer briefly and ask for a follow up at a later date, or if appropriate see if they conversation naturally leads that way. Networking events are not for wandering up to people and pitching for me, it is more about getting to know them, letting them get to know you and building a connection before rampaging in with a sales pitch.

Who are you inside and outside of your work? Share that at a networking event. If you start with YOU in your story, your work will be a lot more interesting to talk about afterwards. 💥

Keep your pitch simple and short. Follow an easy to relay formula of WHO you are, WHAT you do, and WHY you do what you do. Keep it under a minute and digestible for easy follow-up questions.

Having an elevator pitch at all times is necessary. However, a pitch doesn't need to be rehearsed at all times. Sometimes you have to let conversations flow naturally and be yourself. Having genuine conversations can enable you to become relatable!

Make sure to listen more than you speak. Plan to make 3 or more meaningful connections from different companies. You never know who you are speaking to so approach everyone the same.

Don't look to sell to everyone you speak to. Have open conversations that you don't have a planned outcome of already in your mind. Only then will you have meaningful conversations that will benefit both parties and turn into something of value.

Approach others with a genuine interest and a positive attitude. Listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and show appreciation for their insights.

Initiate a friendly conversation to break the ice , introduce yourself get engaged with people develop interest in their conversations it will attract them.

I have to get out of my comfort zone a bit and mingle. Once I start a conversation, I get curious about that person and ask questions to learn what they do and what is important to them. I want to get to know them to see if I can I can help them, personally or professionally. If I can, great! If not, then I still made a new friend, both are valuable connections to me.

Make connections first, keep it short, then follow up to get to know them, like them and trust them to refer or do business with each other. Your pitch is valuable, don’t waste your presentation on the wrong ears.

I always approach a networking event with positive self talk before I even enter. I tell myself these 3 things. 1. Find and approach a person who you think is most like you. 2. Find and speak with a person you think is the polar opposite of you. 3. Don't leave until you find at least one person who you plan to folloq up and connect with no more than 48 hours after the event. Doesn't mean you can't build connections with more, but I have found that if I have at least 3 meaningful conversations at a networking event, I can usually leaving knowing both my personal and professional bucketa have been poured into.

Be the first to smile and ask questions! Take a genuine interest in those you are meeting to build good relationships that last beyond a handshake

Have a plan. Have at least 3 meaningful conversations. Find 3 or more people you can realistically help with a referral. Change your mind set of "How can I make this worth my time?" into "How can I affect someone in a positive way at this event?" I want to make at least 2 or 3 people leave this event being glad they met me. Ask questions, not just about business... keep it casual/personal at first. Shut up and listen attentively. A great question once you know their biz - "How do I spot a good prospect or lead for you?" Don't assume it's obvious. Dig deeper with questions. "What type clients generate most of your success?". Is that by chance or has it always been your focus?" etc. etc. Give and you shall receive. :)

While it's helpful to research prior to a networking event, it's important to keep an open mind and know that you don't have to know everything when you go in. A major purpose of networking event is to share and learn too. So keep the curiosity, don't be afraid to ask and just enjoy! :)

One of the best ways to set yourself apart from the crowd at a networking event is by quickly following up! Consider it part of your schedule when you’re back at your desk. Block off 30 minutes to call the folks you met and set up that follow up conversation.

Micro management kill the team. To success : Believe in your team Lessen every one of your team Trust on your team Encourage your team Assist your team to do better and to help you deciding Always we success together, never alone

Following events, I find LinkedIn invaluable for maintaining connections. I make a habit of sending personalized follow-up notes to recap our interaction. For deeper connections, I often opt for WhatsApp, as it allows for more personal and immediate communication.

My goal is always to follow up the old-fashioned way. I know it`s never expected, but I send a handwritten thank you card, not a text or email. That card speaks volumes because I wrote it, put a stamp on it, and mailed it. Ninety percent of the time, I receive a callback.

Timing is everything. Follow up within 24 hours through a personalized message to the connections you made. Remind them who you are and what you discussed. Reflect on anything you learned from the conversation and thank them for their time. You want to add value to keep the relationship going. Suggest next steps. For example, set up a meeting in person to have coffee. Stay in touch to keep the conversation going.

Schedule a meeting immediately and define what you want and what you have to offer. Respect a "no thanks" but always be thinking "who can I connect with"?

If you make a connection, even if it seems minor, and exchange contact information have the courtesy to follow-up. You never know who can make a valuable introduction or referral in the future.

Send a LinkedIn request the next day. Share your posts and interact with their content to further build the relationship. Follow up 1-2 weeks after to offer resources, timely information and request a 1-1 meeting.

This is something that I feel is much more simple than you may think but also often overlooked. If you tell someone you’re going to connect whether it be LinkedIn, Facebook etc, DO IT. There is no 24 hour rule! I have sometimes connected right in front of the individual and we continue our conversation for weeks on in. It’s all up to your comfort level. We are all human making friends is something we all enjoy.

Consider connecting with them on professional networking platforms such as LinkedIn to stay updated on each other's activities and interests. Engaging with their posts, sharing relevant articles, or even arranging casual follow-up meetings can help nurture and solidify the newly formed connections over time. Remember, genuine relationships are built on mutual support and continued communication!

"Networking is like tending to a garden; the more you nurture it, the more it blooms." Approach with an open heart: Greet attendees warmly, exuding positivity and approachability. Cultivate curiosity: Ask insightful questions and actively listen to others' stories and experiences. Be a beacon of kindness: Offer genuine compliments and show interest in others' passions and achievements. Plant seeds for future connections: Exchange contact information and follow up with new connections after the event. Embrace the diversity of the garden: Connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries to enrich your network.

Be authentic & do not 'sell' anything. Know who your audience is & be genuine when you introduce yourself or ask a question. Truly listen & be sincere with your responses. Also, be kind & reach out to those that you may not be able to do business with directly, when you make a good impression it can result in referrals.

Networking doesn’t come naturally for the vast majority of people so my first bit of advice is most people will feel as awkward as you so don’t worry. Secondly do your research, what’s the group of people attending an event for or why are you connecting with some one on LinkedIn etc. what value can you add to them what advice can you offer? Thirdly networking is about giving, what can you offer to show knowledge or to help someone. Finally you need to cultivate the relationship if you meet someone at an event follow up thank them for their time and point them in the direction of an article or another person that is solid on the topic you were chatting about. Finally be natural be you and don’t try to hard but do make an effort.

In my experience I find being flexible and having broad targets is always best for networking events. If you plan too hard, focus too much on specific targets, not only are you likely to miss out on some opportunities you’ll also likely not enjoy yourself. Which shows. I would also say that you will be noticed. In a negative way, if all you do is hunt specific targets and don’t engage with the general attendees. It’s work, yes. But make it fun and interesting and that’s how you will come across

Approach the networking event with the intent of building relationships. Meet people and do not try to provide a sales pitch but rather start with small talk and get to know people at a more personal level. And then maybe that new relationship will convert to a business relationship longer-term perhaps not directly with that person, but with an expanded network of their connections.

Se for possível distribua para os convidados uma "recordação", algo simples, mas que contenha uma mensagem daquilo que você faz, ou da empresa que está representando.

Authentic network-building is about giving and receiving as opposed to simply stacking up as many potential allies as possible for your own professional advancement. Considering what can you offer others and how you can also be a resource to them is just as important to think through as how they can assist or support you. This approach is also likely to have a favorable impression on the other person you’re engaging with as it is thoughtful and collaborative in nature.

This is a disruptive thought that has become a motto of my community, stop networking and start Net-Doing. Focus on what you can actually do with the person you meet and not what they do for you and vice versa. Find your people, connect to a community, be authentic, show up as your true self.

Most people feel uncomfortable about initiating conversations, and they might be pleased that you have made the effort. The coffee queue is often a great way to start chatting to people, or you might find that there are pedestals where people mix. Check name tags to find people you are somehow connected with. Smile, look for common ground, perhaps ask a question about someone’s view on a certain aspect of the event, or explain why you are attending. Finally, you might want to post about the aspects of the event that you found most insightful, and tag people who deserve special thanks. That’s a great way to show appreciation, as well as to build lasting connections!

Simple & thing that work best is , know your goals and output you are expecting to leverage this networking event for . Figure out who all are coming to this event, try to get list of people coming from the organiser with LI ids , then target few set of people whom you want to interact with, send them request , share initiation message that you are looking forward to meet them . And then in event focus 80% on them in fruitful discussions & follow up later . This way you will achieve more of what you want rather than trying interacting with everyone & wasting your time .