It's Time to Network... Now What?
Every event brings a chance to network. How do you make the most of it? It depends. The approach that works for an extrovert may not work for an introvert. The good news is anyone can build skills with practice. Consider these eight tips ...
#1. Look Your Best
Look at the way you dress, and consider basic hygiene. Does your breath smell fresh? Dress appropriately for the day you expect to have. If you think you’ll be on your feet a lot, comfortable shoes are a must.
#2.Take a Look at the Guest List
If you have access to the event’s guest list, you’re already ahead of the game. Review it before the event. Decide who you want to meet. If your event is using the Whova app, the list is on your phone, along with background info on attendees. See all attendees
#3. Choose Quality Over Quantity
Consider your ultimate goal. It sounds counterintuitive, but your goal may not be to collect the most business cards (which may end up gathering dust). A better goal is to meet a specific person or a few key people. Search attendees on the app.
#4. Approach Someone
OK, it’s time to meet people. Having trouble? Get in line for the buffet and talk to the person next to you. You can use the Whova app to immediately send someone a message that you would like to get together. Send messages on the app.
#5. Be Selective About Eating and Drinking
If the group is standing, pass up the finger food. Keep a hand free so you can greet people with a handshake or exchange business cards. (By the way, the Whova app has a feature that lets you scan business cards.) Open business card scanner.
#6. Don’t Make It About Me, Me, Me
An attorney offers this advice: Talk about the other person in the conversation. Be ready with compliments. Make a connection, build rapport. And remember: you can follow up with a message containing a tagline or link to your credentials.
#7. Ask How You Can Help
You ultimately came to the networking event to get a job or to get some sort of contact that can benefit you. Rather than asking for something, consider asking how you might help your contact. “It changes everything,” says one veteran sales manager.
#8. Don't forget to Follow Up
After the event is over, send your contact a personal note saying you appreciated your meeting. You can do it through the Whova app. It’s an excellent chance to make points you missed during the face-to-face encounter. Good luck!