How to Successfully Have Effective Networking Events in 10 Simple steps!
Download, Listen to the Full Networking Events Best Practice Audio, and Subscribe to Our Podcast on Soundcloud and iTunes Below:
Well we were supposed to segway into how to be a success at a business networking event even if its your first time ever. But we got side tracked into sharing our findings on the New Pinterest Algorithm Changes affecting your blog traffic. If you haven’t yet read that post go read it now!
So, ever attended a Business or Networking Event or Trade Show and got so tongue tied, you ended up walking around looking busy or sat in a corner sipping bad coffee?
I have been there done that and today I share with you 10 Tips on what you can do at any networking event to connect with more people, effectively network better and build some initial rapport, stand out for all the right reasons, and be remembered. We learnt these in an Online Leadership Mastermind and felt that more Online, Network Marketers, Home Business Entrepreneurs and Dynamic Corporate workers need to know them too!
So without further ado Below are our 10 Steps to Effective Networking at an Event:
[bctt tweet=”10 Steps to Effective Networking at an Event #networkingtips “]
One thing you need to remember right at the onset is:
- You can never please all the people all the time. You are only looking to connect with and impress upon a target few that you have value to offer and they may need that value! You are not there to impress or people please, rather to build the impression that they definitely want to connect with you! And here below is more practical guidance on how to do this…
- Set Goals for the Business event. What do you hope to achieve from it, what do you wish to accomplish and come out of the experience with: Seven warm connections, new friends, someone you can refer business to? Be clear. Set your plan and work the plan, be flexible as anything could happen and keep an open mind. By the way as per Ray Higdon training, I no longer take Business Cards to events. I am there to collect them! And I’ve learnt the suave Higdon way of ensuring I get the card without looking like an irresponsible dork for not bringing any!
- Learn about the community you are meeting prior to event and Target Your Audience appropriately. Research and find out about them on websites, blogs and through others that may know about them, or are members of the group.
- Find out about the Networking event Guest List. And see if attendees are potential target market or collaborators in a Joint Venture. When you know more about the some specific people that will attend and who you want to meet, do your homework and find out about them. Company, awards, community activity, accomplishments. This is great fodder for conversation. How would you feel when someone you didn’t know, approaches you and says, “I loved the blog post you wrote on how to be Open to Receive abundance”? It certainly says something to me about them. And when you arrive at the event….
- Pair up With a Mentor at the Start of he Networking event or trip, but don’t be glued to their side, remember you are there to make new connections. Find someone who knows the crowd and group and ask them to introduce you to a few influencers, movers and shakers, and potential clients/collaborators at the event. Coming with someone others know and respect says sends a good message to others about you. “You are judged by the company you keep,” is true for most.
[bctt tweet=”remember you are there to make new connections #networkingevents”]
- Scan the room and spot a group of people at business networking events that are not necessarily chatting with each other. Join them and focus on a specific person. Start a conversation intro yourself, what you do and ask about them! LISTEN to their response to learn whether you can enrich their lives in anyway. In your intro you will use that opportunity to use your “Elevator Pitch.” Learn what that is and how to craft yours in our post here. In this way you very briefly: Share Your Passion, Authenticity, And a Story People will really connect with the authentic you. Everyone has a story. It’s the new “elevator pitch.”
Note: Never barge in on a private conversation between 2 people at a networking event. None of them will appreciate it. If someone shows no interest in you, smile and excuse yourself.
- Work the Room, Get social, Mix and mingle, and try to have several warm interactions. Don’t monopolize or be monopolized. Engage and encourage mutual conversation and include others into it.
- Be inclusive But exclusive – you are NOT at any networking event to connect with everybody, rather with a select exclusive few. Find those few and the trick is to…See how making connections for others makes sense both at the event and after. How about making a few referrals for those select few esp. those with stands and tables with goods. You’ll be amazed at how helping out someone will get them in your favour fast. Also encouraging commonality and synergy can work with complimentary businesses. Always think WIIFT = Whats In It for Them…and then offer it!
- Asking Questions gets you the most connections. Remember if anything fails You can ask after an introduction: HCIHY (How Can I Help or Serve You?). ot what can I sell you, but how can I serve you. “Serving is the new Selling.” See most people, are there for themselves and show it, You will stand out for Offering to help…! Most people will be eager to give your their details in lieu of that help and service. They will also remember you when you…FOLLOW up 24-48 hrs after the event. This is one of the best Networking Tips, it is the new benchmark for networking. When people know you are in it for the right reasons and motives, the relationship naturally grows. Remember that Building trust, takes time so why not freely share knowledge expertise where its appropriate of course. Be you, Invest time and commit to it with people you feel good potential with and demonstrate a mutuality with….And Drum roll please…
- YES Follow Up & Do so promptly, purposefully after networking events. You are sorting and sieving now, the serious potential partners or customers from time wasters. You are reconnecting and rewarming those connections you made at the event. Offer to meet up for a cuppa or a bite. If not in same location, simply get to business and ask more deeply how you can specifically serve them? Offer a resource that may be of help to them. Schedule an online meeting via a hangout or Skype. Exchange social media profiles if they are open and find out if they are open to new opportunities. You could suggest a guest blog opp, mentoring, exchange referrals, collaboration, link swap etc. These are just a few examples to share when you reach out and Follow up.
And now because we love to over deliver, Below are…………
5 Things to Never ever Do at a Networking Event in Video Below & Share with Friends.
Wanna learn our Battle tested Email Follow up Tips Watch this Video & Subscribe to our Channel
[bctt tweet=”More longer term and big ticket Relationships take time, effort and commitment.”]
Networking Events Quick Recap:
More longer term and big ticket Relationships take time, effort and commitment. Some grow, some bounce but you won’t know which until you take action. Networking is a natural extension of all our interactions and communications today.
Always make it about them! Seek out just a few people that you want to connect with. Networking events are not about how many cards you collect. You’re goal is to connect with & start one or two meaningful relationships, that’s it. You do this best by asking “How can I help you grow your business”? “Who is a good referral for you”? Invite them for a Cuppa or a bite, send a handwritten thank you note for their time. Send them a few quality referrals if you can. Guess what? They will reciprocate sooner or later, & if not, you just did a random act of kindness, you will receive a reward Its the Law of Reciprocation. Networking isn’t difficult but it does take practice to reap the benefits. Come from a place of service first. Try it.
People will buy from you once they get to know, like and trust you. And likewise you’ll develop some amazing relationships as you connect with people who you get to know, like & trust & you will buy from too! We are pretty much networking all the time now aren’t we? What are some of the successful ways you have used in your networking?
If you do happen to Love this post on how to have massive success at a networking event; and our tutorials, do share with others & let us know in a comment below. We love knowing who’s loving our content the most and sharing with others. So feel free to share, like our posts, use the social share buttons either side or simply highlight a text and share away esp. on Facebook…
Want to know a secret? I plan to add more to this Networking Events best practice post as its coming to summer time and events galore. So do bookmark, Pin it and check back for more Tips to be added!
By the way, if you’re not already one of our blog subscribers, Click Here to Subscribe to Our Blog… and as a bonus you’ll get a copy of our $147 Ultimate Pinterest Roadmap course absolutely FREE!
And if you’re not already connected with and following us on these sites here’s how you can change that…
Instagram.com/syl_julekalungi
Facebook.com/RisewithJulie&Pauli
Twitter.com/juleskalpauli
Periscope.tv/syl_julekalungi
You do deserve more
Live Learn Love
Julie Syl Kalungi
Skype: Julie.Kalungi1
Email: julie[at]Juleskalpauli.com
Follow me: Syl_JuleKalungi on Periscope
Considering Coaching? Check out our Work with us tab and Survey where we Help People Everyday.
P.S: IF YOU DON’T HAVE A LIST OR YOU HAVE A NON RESPONSIVE LIST, AND HAVEN’T MADE MORE THAN 10 SALES OR RECRUITED ANYONE YET, YOU NEED THIS – LIST BUILDING AND CONVERSION COURSE!
thank you so much for this …. I am going to my first big event in August for this particular field so I really loved and bookmarked this site to study before I go. cheers!
Hi Brittany,
We are so excited for you, Go enjoy your event, remember they are all humans like you and probably even more wary! So Go with a smile and Purpose to Help & Serve more people, you will enjoy it loads.
Julie Syl~
Thanks for all the tips and steps in effective networking at events Julie!
My absolute pleasure Rory,thanks for stopping by!
PJKW~
Great tips. It’s really all about just getting to know new people. 🙂
Exactly, when wethink its gonna be hard, so it gets Audra. Ta for stopping by!
J&PK~
Connecting with new folks is a big one Julie. At events, online, anywhere. I enjoy meeting new folks daily while fanning flames under my older bonds. Fab tips!
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
What a pleasant surprise to hear from you. This Dude is a blogging juggernaut connect with him @BloggingFromParadise And he offers amazing advise and tips on how to make money blogging, I cant emphasize just how much we learnt from one of his books, Find him on Amazon and Grab his books!
Yup, Donnecting with new people is always a buzz when you are prepared to not only learn but to Serve others 🙂
Julie Syl~
Great tips and resources that show real etiquette. Thanks for sharing how you should act!
Hi Dr,
well thank you for those kind words. And you are most welcome indeed 🙂
Julie Syl~
[ Smiles ] A very informative article.
I like the part, “What is in it for them.”
And, do have yourself a fabulous week!
Always Renard…its always about them…unless you take time out for You 🙂 n which case its WIIFM 🙂
Have a fab week yourself!
Julie Syl~
Thanks for sharing these tips. I am attending a networking even in the near future and will be sure to keep these 10 tips in mind.
Hi Heschel,
I am sure you will be great as a Speaker yourself 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
J&PK~
These are great tips. I often get nervous in u familiar situations with people I don’t know. I realize it’s important to have a strategy and you have outlined the perfect steps.
Hi Roxy,
Just remember that the next person is just as nervous and they will thank you for taking away the need to make then first move and offering help to boot. Breaks the ice like none other, of course all that with your beautiful smile 🙂 Glad you got value!
Julie Syl~
Great tips Julie!
I especially like the one about being aware of what someone else needs and how that will help people to remember you. Lots of good info!
Thanks for playing The Pinterest Game
your cohost,
Patty
Hi Patty,
Its good to hear from you too and glad you got value. Thanks for being such a giver 🙂
Julie Syl~
great advice. i love metting new people and networking is always fun!
Ahhhh so good to hear that someone loves networking and mingling with other entrepreneurs Katrina. It sure is fun once one gets over their initial nerves 🙂
J&PK~
I never went to a networking event before, mostly because they seemed so scary. I am definitely bookmarking this for when I do join one!
I especially love the idea of having a mentor.
Great post,
~ Sofie
Hi Sofie,
Every successful person you know, see or hear about started somewhere and it was in that exact place…Of wondering what they would do? Fear, self doubt….we all have to grow out f it if we are to succeed so I am glad you are well kitted for your first business event! I am glad to help if you are happy to have a chat on where you may need Mentorship!
Julie Syl~
Holy Moly Julie!! I Love all of your tips for being a Wild success at our Network Event!! oo I cant wait to Meet you at one!!
Hi Tara,
You cannot imagine how much I am looking forward to meeting you too and thanks for your continued support! 🙂
Julie Syl~
Always great info and I find a lot of value ♥♥☺☺ thank youu !!~~
Always a pleasure to serve you Sandraji 🙂 Thanks for your time!
Julie Syl~
Great post! Thanks for sharing!
You are welcome Suchi 🙂
J&PK~
What great tips, thank you so much. Networking is the only way to succeed.
Hi Tp,
Glad you agree Thanx for swinging by!
J&PK~
Believe it or not, I am somewhat shy and can be the wallflower at events or parties. I am not much into crowds so it is a challenge for me not to be the one sitting in the corner with that bad coffee. So Julie, this one is very much for me. 🙂
Its actually the case Claudette that Introverts make the best speakers and trainers. So I can imagine indeed. so you are a Yellow as well! loving getting to know you a wee bit via your awesome comments 🙂
Julie syl~
Such a great tips and awesome event to attend
Hi Parpa…Glad you got value!
J&PK~
love the step by step process you provided to have a successful network marketing event. thank u
Hi Sheena,
We love you on point support. Thanx for swinging by!
J&PK~
The tip that has always reaped rich dividends in terms of connections and creating good friends is the 6th one. Many times, people are too shy to make the first move at a networking event and a simple smile can lead to a conversation and potential referrals or even a new assignment!
Hi Vatsala,
A smile does indeed make it easier to head closer to a person or not. If I smile at someone and they look away awkwardly I stay away from them. Indeed its the opener for a conversation. Thanks for your contribution! 🙂
Julie Syl~
Always great tips and advice Julie. This list of 10 steps for networking at events is a good checklist to follow. Events have really helped to change my business and when you can leverage your time it can bring tremendous value to our business. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Lynn,
glad you got value indeed and I do agree, events have helped build up our business too. We always come home with a even sharper strategy and reawakened visin and hunger for success 🙂 No place to top up inspiration better than an event! Apart from your Why getting more demanding!
Julie Syl~
I’ve never been to a networking event before. It would sure be nice to meet new people and learn from them aside from that, it would be great to talk about business as well. It’s a good opportunity for people who are starting up and those who want to improve. Thank you for the pointers.
Oops! That was a typo. I meant to say that I’ve been to many, many networking events and they are a great way to meet and connect with new people and like minded souls. I agree that #10 is the most critical – Follow Up!
We were wondering how come a Motivational Writer hasnt been to any events yet 🙂 Glad you corrected that Eliza 🙂
J&PK~
Well they are the best training platform for talking to groups of total strangers without being on the spot i.e. on stage.
So any chance you get Elizabeth Go for one!
J&PK~
Great tips! These events can be very awkward, but you lay out a great plan of action.
Hi Marigold,
Events “Can be awkward” because one is unprepared…unresearched and not confident about meeting and talking to total strangers about the Self…
Most of us Dont like talking about ourselves…!
So better prep gives us that lil bit of confidence to face the crowd and mingle!
Julie syl~
These are some excellent tips on networking. If I ever need to do so, I will remember some of theses
Hi Marie, Glad you got some value, simply bookmark page for that momentous day 🙂
J&PK~
Great tips. I’ve gotten much better at networking meeting over the years and these tips will make it so we feel that our time at networking meetings is well spent. I totally agree with the follow up.
And I believe yo won a Speaking gig Kenny, way to go bro. We gotta connect with new people after the initial shyness wears off…its what we are engineered for!
Julie Syl~
Great post Julie. the Follow-Up…That’s where most fall down
Yes it is over and over and over…you are spot on Steve!
Julie Syl~
You are so right doing some reasearch and understand who is the audience will allow for a successful networking event
Yes it does Adriana and I believe you are heading for a mega one soon. and We wish you every success on the nomination Yo Go Girl!
Julie Syl~
I’m going to my first networking event this Saturday, so this post was just perfect timing! I’m such a shy, quiet person, so naturally I’m very nervous but these tips really have helped calm me down. Now I’m off to learn more about the other guests!
Hi Nicole,
Dont forget to take some energy Bars, a fruit, maybe some nuts and fruit mix and A bottle of water. Some events dont offer anything and going to look for food can become a nightmare with thousands of people released on the neighbourhood. Energy bars keep the hunger gremlins away and are healthier than the junk out there. And water is essential to keep you hydrated. The Adrenalin will get you thirsty soon.And yo are welcome!
Julie Syl~
Great tips, I particularly like your idea of teaming up with a mentor at the start of the event. I am rather shy, and find that doing this helps me to get comfortable and I agree that people definitely react better when you are introduced by a person they already know than one that introduces themselves.
Hi Karina,
It does work for some events, but others you gotta bit the upper lip and go alone and Connect with others. this s where the rest of the steps come into play! 🙂
Julie Syl~
This is always something I have a problem with. If I go alone it’s like going on a rollercoaster. Eventually somebody talks to me and the flow goes. But great tips. Will take them all into consideration.
Hi Hub,
trust me we have all been there and some still there…Get to an event and stick to our mates like glue or hide behind a face or our gadgets…It is the best chance to make a couple of great connections. thats all yo need bro…and take it from there. At worst you have met a few good people and hopefuly stood out for them and THEY FOLLOW UP with you 🙂 But thats hope marketing!
Julie Syl~
Really great advice! Thanks for the info. I haven’t been to a Networking Event but it’s nice to know how to not look like a fish out of water.
Well Heidi if you intend to build an income online then Events you gotta attend. Business events, Trade shows , Expos etc…You need to build your business network hun. Thanx for stopping by!
J&PK~