Hate going to networking events? You no longer need to shy away with these 9 networking event ideas to make these affairs productive for you.
We think it's fair to say that not everyone loves attending networking events. (Understatement of the year, am I right???)
Yet we all know that business networking is a valuable skill that can lead to opportunities you wouldn't become aware of otherwise. While the best-planned networking event ideas facilitate attendee's meeting and getting to know each other, they can still be overwhelming.
Fortunately, Greetly is here to make you more productive. So look at your calendar and find the next important networking event. Make a note to re-read this article 2-3 days ahead of time.
The following tips will help you get more out of the upcoming event and, dare we say, actually enjoy yourself too!
Why are you going to this event? "It's a great opportunity" or "To represent my company" or "To make some contacts" isn't a specific enough objective. Be specific and really drill down to find your main purpose for attending the event.
Once you have your objective, prepare for success. Think about your elevator pitch. Practice it to ensure you have the right level of enthusiasm. Too often people walk into an event and meet amazing contacts but get so nervous they don't take advantage of the situation. Or their modesty takes over and they sell themselves short. And pack your business cards and a pen.
If you are going to the event with the intention of connecting with specific people, be sure you do your homework. Look for the attendee list online, or ask the organizers to share it with you. Research contacts beforehand, and allow enough time to meet and engage with them without rushing or spreading yourself too thin. Jot down a couple of details about each person you meet on the back of their business card.
This trick is especially important for introverts who find social events anxiety-provoking. Minimize all of the last minute details:
These may seem like small details. Yet they will go a long way to ensure you arrive relaxed and confident. Before you face the crowd, use an event app to check yourself in and check the mirror to tidy your appearance. Now you are ready to impress.
Of course, you are going to the event to develop yourself, or your business. But, it won't work if you show up trying to take, take take. You need to give to get. As you speak to people, listen for opportunities to help them.
Obviously, you can't invite your boss if you are looking for a new job. In many scenarios though, you will be more comfortable if you ensure someone you know will be in attendance. They are a good fallback while you are in between conversations or scouting the room for one of your targets.
They are a fallback though. Do not allow yourself to spend too much time with people you already know or you will not achieve your objective. Strategically use a quick hello to calm any nerves, think about your prior conversations, and run through what else you need to achieve at this event.
Networking events don't have to be a chore. If you prepare, get clear on your purpose and create a plan of action, you are more likely to feel confident and enjoy yourself.
Don't be intimidated, you don't have to build a community from scratch. If you enjoy an event, reach out to the organizers and offer to assist. They are likely volunteers, overwhelmed, and ecstatic to have your help.
This makes you an insider. You will get to know all of the key players. This gives you an extra reason to speak with them when they arrive - and sometimes in advance as part of developing the affair.
This is especially valuable if you manage a shared workspace. Coworking events are the best way to attract, engage and retain members. To find groups that are relevant to your client base and sponsor them by providing your venue.
Since few people do this, following up with everyone you meet will help you stand out from the crowd. It doesn't have to be complicated, just a quick email or Linkedin connection request. Beyond the obvious benefits, following up will help you down the road. It may take three months - or three years - before you start to make a real connection. These emails will act as your CRM database, a reference to remind yourself when and where you met, what you discussed, and who else was in attendance.
Breathe deep, you've got this. Using the tools above, even the professionals at Business Networking International will wonder how you do it. And it's simple.
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