How to network like a pro (even if you're new or nervous)
So many professionals and business owners I work with have some sort of goal to network more but struggle to make it happen. Most of the time, it comes down to being a bit afraid to put themselves out there. To go to a new place, where you don't know anyone, and have to start a conversation with a total stranger.
The good news is it doesn't have to be so scary! The whole point is to meet new people so don't let your fears stop you from walking up to someone new and introducing yourself.
And if you need more convincing in the moment, remind yourself that everyone there is also looking to meet new people, most are probably also nervous, and will appreciate you making the first move.
Some key tips to remember to make the most of your time at an event:
Have a game plan before you walk in the door
Take a few minutes to think about (1) why you want to network and (2) the types of industries, roles, or companies that you're looking to make connections. Sharing your intention for networking and who you're looking to meet is a great way for the people you meet to remember you and to connect you with those people in the future.
This information will also help you find the most relevant events to you by understanding who attends these types of events. Looking for events still? Check out Meetup, Eventbrite, and your local area Chamber of Commerce. Search google for networking events with your keyword industries or roles you listed above.
You may even want to set a target of the number of people you want to meet at the event as motivation to continue mingling and not just talk to the same person all night (unless that one person is THE person you wanted to meet).
Be prepared to make the first move
In order to not stand in the corner by yourself all night, think of different ways to initiate a conversation:
maybe it's finding someone standing alone and asking what brought them out to the event
maybe it's bonding over the snacks or drinks while you're in line
maybe it's walking up to a group of people mid-conversation and joining in
(see more convo starters below)
Build relationships, not just stacks of business cards
Don't just throw your business card immediately at every person you meet and walk away. The point of networking is building relationships so that you will be remembered past your first meeting. Trying asking about what's something exciting they're working on, look to find topics you may have in common, or ask how you can support them.
Business cards are great to share if you want to stay connected with the person in the future. You don't want to be the person just handing out a business card, walking away, and nobody remembers you (and your card gets thrown away).
Stay true to your follow ups
Consider how you will connect with these people again in the future, like going through the business cards and sending everyone a personal email or a LinkedIn request within a week.
If you spoke with anyone about a specific follow up (let's grab coffee, I'll send you a link, etc.), write these down somewhere as a follow up so you don't forget to follow through on your commitments. This allows you to build trust with people faster.
Follow ups is one of the most missed aspects of networking so if you follow through on this, you will definitely stand out!
Easy conversation starters to have in your back pocket:
Find someone by themselves and walk up and introduce yourself
Is this your first event with this group?
Hi my name is X, so what brings you out to this event?
Hi there, looking for someone to talk with?
Strike up an easy ice-breaker over coffee/bar/food - cheesy but effective
I haven't had my coffee yet and it shows!
What are you drinking on?
Have you tried the x yet? it's amazing
Walk up to a small group of people already talking and try a few different options:
What were y'all just talking about?
What did I miss?
Mind if I squeeze in here?
Learn more quick tips in Lauren Ansley’s Work The Room podcast.
If you're ready to invest in your own leadership journey, book a free discovery call and let's talk about what's next for you.
Brittany Canaski is a highly-rated Leadership Coach, Trainer, and Founder of Hello Velocity where she builds confident leaders and high-performing teams. When she's not building her business, you can find her planning her next travel adventure with her husband, watching Formula 1 racing, or volunteering in her local community of Charlotte, NC.
