5 Ways to Make Networking Events Less Awkward (and More Effective)
By Heather Halligan, Marketing Manager and Michelle Hoffman, Business Development Coordinator
Do the words “networking event” send shivers down your spine?
The thought of talking to new people and selling them on your product or service can be anxiety-inducing for some.
But it doesn’t have to be.
When you start thinking of networking events as opportunities to connect and build relationships rather than a sales quota that must be met, there’s less pressure.
Even if you’re not a “people person,” here are five ways to make the experience less awkward and more effective.
It’s About Conversations, Not Sales
Don’t go into a networking event to get leads or sales opportunities. If you push too hard with the sales pitch, you won’t have an opportunity to make genuine relationships.
The best networking events often are the ones where conversations are centered around personal lives rather than business.
You meet someone and discover you have kids the same age or enjoy biking or golfing. These personal conversations are how long-lasting business relationships start.
The next time that contact needs a reference, they are going to think of you because of the great conversation.
Remember: People do business with people they like. The ultimate goal might be a lead or a sale, but the initial goal is developing a relationship with good conversations.
Prepare a Few Go-To Icebreakers or Questions
If you’re an introvert, that’s OK!
It’ll be easier for you to walk into a room full of strangers if you prepare a few questions ahead of time so you’re not panicking in the moment.
Even if you’re an extrovert, having a couple of go-to questions can make the experience much smoother.
Some of our favorites are:
- What’s your role at your company?
- What’s a project or something great that you’re working on?
- How did you become aware of this organization (that is hosting the event)?
A perfect time to practice is in the bar or food line. You’re already close to other people, and it’s a good way to pass the time while you wait. Ask if they’ve tried the food or drink before and what they think of it.
Sure, it might be awkward. You might talk to the one person who just wants to get their food and not be bothered. But the important part is embracing the awkwardness and getting comfortable talking to people you don’t know.
Have a Quick, Friendly Self-Intro Ready
Similar to having questions prepared ahead of time, prepare an introduction for yourself that details your name, your organization, your role and a key detail about yourself.
Remember, it shouldn’t feel like you’re reciting a resume; you want your personality to shine through. Practice it in the mirror at home and keep things casual and conversational.
Networking events can be daunting, but with the right mindset and game plan, they also are great for making meaningful relationships.
Research the event ahead of time and find out who will be attending and what industries will be there. You can then tailor your intro to the event. If you have an idea of who you might meet, that will make it easier to figure out the talking points that might spark meaningful conversations.
Look for Natural Exit Cues (and Use Them Graciously)
We’ve all been stuck in conversations that drag on just a bit too long. You awkwardly slide toward the door as you try to politely exit the conversation.
Networking events are designed for short conversations with lots of people. So, be on the lookout for telltale signs that a conversation has served its purpose.
Verbal cues
- Repeating the same points
- One-word or short responses
Nonverbal cues
- Looking away
- Checking a watch
If you start to see these signs from the person you’re talking to (or you’re noticing you’re doing these things), graciously exit the conversation with a positive tone.
You could say something like, “I’ve really enjoyed talking to you, and I’m going to walk around the room. I would love to connect with you again in the future. Here’s my card.”
This way, you’ve established you enjoyed the conversation and want to reconnect later without being dismissive or rude.
Follow Up Within 48 Hours
Don’t wait too long to follow up with any connections.
We recommend following up within 48 hours at a minimum, but within 24 hours is the most ideal time.
Whether it’s through email, LinkedIn, phone call or another means, just make sure you send a note and ask if they would be open to grabbing coffee or connecting another way.
Additionally, there’s no rule that says you have to follow up with every person you meet. If you feel the connection wasn’t there, don’t feel obligated to reconnect.
Let’s Connect
Networking events can be daunting, but with the right mindset and game plan, they also are great for making meaningful relationships.
Want more tips on how to make networking events less stressful and more productive? Let’s talk about how we can help your organization flourish!
