Networking events are great opportunities to meet new people, expand your professional network, and build relationships with key industry contacts. However, attending these events can be overwhelming, and it can be challenging to know where to start. Whether you’re interested in business networking events, networking groups, or networking for entrepreneurs, having a strategy is key.


Networking events are great opportunities to meet new people, expand your professional network, and build relationships with key industry contacts. However, attending these events can be overwhelming, and it can be challenging to know where to start. Whether you’re interested in business networking events, networking groups, or networking for entrepreneurs, having a strategy is key.

Come Prepared
Before attending the event, research the attendees and speakers, and identify the people you want to connect with. If you're going with someone or expect to meet somebody you know at the event, ask them to introduce you to anyone on your list. Prepare a few questions or topics to start a conversation. Here are a few questions you may find useful to break the ice:

"What brought you to this event today?"
"Have you attended any events like this before? If so, what have you found to be most valuable about them?"
"What industry are you in?"
"What inspired you to pursue a career in [industry/field]?"
"What are some exciting developments you've seen in [industry/field] lately?"
"What do you hope to get out of this event?"
Also, bring plenty of business cards. Networking business events are an excellent place to share these.

Be Approachable

Body language is important in networking. A warm smile, an open posture, and eye contact can make you more approachable and inviting to others. Feel free to introduce yourself to others and strike up a conversation. Remember, everyone is there to meet new people and make connections. Be more interested rather than interesting! We have two ears and one mouth, and we should use them proportionally. Ask questions and show interest in what others have to say. This can help you build rapport and establish a deeper connection.

Here are a few questions you may find useful when the conversation gets further:

-What are some of the challenges you have in your business right now?
-What do you need to take your business to the next level?
-What sort of projects are you working on currently?
-Where do you see your company heading?

pend no more than 5-10 minutes with each person you meet, then move on and meet other people. Networking groups and network marketing groups often emphasize the importance of circulating and meeting a variety of people.

Follow-Up

After the event, follow up with the people you met. Send a brief email or message thanking them for their time and expressing your interest in staying in touch. This can help you establish a long-term relationship and build a network of valuable contacts. Networking for entrepreneurs especially benefits from diligent follow-up, as these connections can lead to future collaborations.

Help Them

Are they active on social media? Engage with their posts! Do they ask for specific advice? Look for resources or information. Spread the word and introduce them to someone who can help them! The best way to build a relationship is by helping or giving some kind of value, even if it's just a meaningful conversation on a topic they are interested in. Keep giving and helping without expecting anything in return! This is how you build relationships, as people tend to reciprocate and want to help back!

Be Patient

Building a network takes time and effort. Don't expect to build strong relationships overnight. Keep attending events, following up with contacts, and nurturing your network. Over time, your efforts will pay off, and you'll have a valuable network of contacts that can help you grow professionally.

In conclusion, effective networking at events and conferences requires preparation, approachability, active listening, follow-up, and patience. By mastering these skills, you can build a strong network of contacts and unlock new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

If you have any questions or wish to practice your networking skills, get in touch and ask for an invitation to our next networking event!