1)
Do your research
Always do research ahead of the event, so that you
can get an understanding of who you would like to meet and who you would
like to introduce yourself to. Most of the time an itinerary will usually be
issued prior to the networking event.
2)
Take plenty of business cards
Make sure that you have enough business cards with you, so
that you can exchange cards with anyone that you may be interested in
maintaining contact with. Business cards are very useful, one, they save
time on writing contact details down, so you can focus on networking and two, they
also act as a reminder that they met with you.
3)
Prepare a 60 second pitch
When you meet people at an event, people are going to want
to know who you are and what you do. Think about how many people attend events,
they are not going to want to stand talking to one person for 30 minutes.
4)
Present yourself smartly
Everyone says in life you shouldn’t judge a book by its
cover, however in a professional setting the way that somebody chooses to
present themselves can tell a lot about their attitude, which then reflects on
whether you are approachable.
5)
Body Language
Body language is highly important at networking events as
this indicates whether you are approachable or not.
Try not to cross your arms as this can come across as closed and harder to potentially approach. Look confident, smile, make eye contact with people at the event, this will make you a lot more approachable.
If you are nervous, just remember everyone is in the same boat as you are!
6)
Take an Interest into other people
Remember that networking events are not just about you,
listen and take an interest in what other individuals say, networking events
will not strictly be about business all the time, if there is a topic someone
is passionate about, ask them about it, this will help with making the
conversation more personable.
7)
Give them a reason to remember you
You will meet lots of people at networking events, so how
will people remember you? You need to differentiate yourself from the others. Define
what it is that you do, be enthusiastic when talking about your work, as people
want to work with individuals who are passionate about what they do. Explain
how you could help them, as they are likely to remember you if you can benefit
them in some way.
8)
Follow up
After the event, follow up with the individuals that you
met, if you have their business card pop them an email or connect with them on
Linkedin.
