Networking can feel kind of awkward – especially for younger professionals. But if you're starting a new business, you know just how important creating a network of the right people can be. These connections will help you gain clients, take advantage of word-of-mouth marketing and build a team of people you want working for you. That doesn't make putting yourself out there any easier, though. Events are a great way to get started (as opposed to trying to build a network online) because they allow you to control the first impression you give people while also providing you the opportunity to meet plenty of people in one evening. If you're ready to start building your network at an event, take a look at these five tips for working the room successfully:
1. Study Up
The preparation you do before the event counts just as much as the networking you do during. For any event you go to, you should first know exactly who's going to be there and then have an idea of who you're going to talk to and what you'll discuss. Does the event have a speaker you'd like to seek advice from? Or is there going to be someone you'd like to pitch your services to? For each of these people, have conversation starters in mind. Even if you don't use them, you'll be able to avoid awkward silent moments in the middle of a conversation ("So…how about this weather we're having?").
2. Come Prepared
There's nothing more important at a networking event than bringing along plenty of business cards you can pass out. You should also keep a pen in your purse or pocket so that if you receive business cards, you can jot down a quick note about the person you were talking to and a few bullet points about what you discussed. That way, when it comes time to follow up, you'll have more to say than, "It was nice meeting you."
3. Know Your Pitch
Part of networking successfully is setting an objective for yourself. Are you trying to gain prospective clients? Are you looking to see how competitors are marketing their businesses? When you know what you're trying to accomplish, you can come up with a 30-second pitch for yourself or your business that will keep people interested and wanting to hear more.
4. Be Genuine
So you've brought your business cards, but here's the thing about them: You shouldn't be passing them out like candy. The idea at this event is to make genuine connections, and not to meet every single person in the room. It's OK to make fewer connections than you thought you were going to – as long as they're sincere and have potential.
5. Stay in Touch
Networking means nothing if you don't follow up afterward. If it feels comfortable during a conversation, mention getting together to talk further. If not, simply send over an email or connect on LinkedIn with a personalized message about what you discussed and whether you'd like to follow up with an in-person meeting.
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