Many people
only start thinking about attending a networking event when they embark on
their next job search. When they do actually attend a networking event, they
feel pressured to get something out of it and feel disappointed when they don’t
get a lead on a job opening. If that’s your purpose of attending a networking
event, stay home and browse job boards – you’ll be more successful in
accomplishing the goal of applying to job opening.
On the other
hand, if you’re looking to meet new people, bounce ideas, or gain insight about
a company or industry while also having a good time, then certainly attend as
many networking events as you possibly can. You will also find networking
events are much more fun once you become a regular and start running into some
familiar faces.
Here are 13
easy steps to follow to get the most out of a networking event:
1. Set
a goal
Perhaps your
goal is to make a meaningful connection with someone, add 5 people to your
network, or maybe it’s to gain industry knowledge. Pick one goal follow through
with it.
2. Know
how to introduce yourself
I
would suggest crafting a 15-20 second elevator pitch about who you are, what
you do, and why it’s important. Make it personal, strong, and memorable. Don’t
over-rehearse it before the event; keep it natural.
3. Bring
your business card
If you would
like to continue having a relationship after the event is over, you need to
ensure that you’ll be able to be contacted. The most professional way of doing
this? Giving out your business card. Do not hand out your resume! A networking
event is not the correct place to do that.
4. Introduce
yourself to the host
This is an easy
way to gain some insight about the attendees and get noticed. This will also
become very beneficial if you become a regular.
5. Quality
over quantity
Instead of only
exchanging business cards, focus on building a rapport and have quality
conversations.
6. Be
mindful of your body language
Maintain
eye contact, uncross your arms, and keep a welcoming posture.
7. Stay
positive
Do not use the
networking event to vent about your situation. Hold a pleasant conversation;
nobody wants to talk to a negative person.
8. Don’t
be selfish
Don’t interrupt
conversations and don’t force your business card on anyone. Let the other
person introduce himself or herself first and consider their goals before you
start talking.
9. Join
the conversation
This is very
different from interrupting just to hand out your business card. Don’t be
nervous about joining a group, just do it very politely.
10. Be
interested and engaged
Ask
3 to 5 open-ended questions and let the other person open up to you. Listen to
what they say before you respond.
11. Remember
and follow up
As you probably won’t
be able to remember every little thing about each conversation, take notes directly
on the business cards after they are exchanged to jog your memory for your
follow-ups. I suggest following up within 24-48 business hours to show
gratitude for their connection.
12. Voice
your desires
Nobody can help you
if you don’t tell them what you want. Consider what’s it in for them and
address that in your presentation. I suggest replacing every “I, me, us, and
we” with “you or your”; it will make a significant change in impact of your
presentation.
13. Share
your contacts
If you can
introduce the person you are speaking with to someone else at the event, you
would be offering something upfront to the relationship. Alternatively, you can
put them in touch with a meaningful contact after the event. You can’t expect
other people to share their network if you are not willing to do it first.
Have questions on how best to network? Comment below! You can also reach out to one of our expert recruiters. Find the closest CFS office to you here.
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