Tips on How to Network at Business Eventssubmitted on 27 April 2022
Are you new to networking or are not very confident doing this at business events? Do not worry, networking is something that does get easier over time. With some practice, you are going to make sure you are making the most of these types of events. So, put on your best suit or dress and feel confident. If you look the part, you often feel the part too. Here are some tips that are going to help you learn how to successfully network at business events.
Prepare in Advance
If you are not used to networking, it can be a daunting prospect. How do you know what to say to people? With some experience, networking is going to be a lot easier. But, if this is your first time, make sure that you prepare in advance. Think of some ideas and topics that you can talk about to people that are attending. If you are able to, do some research on those that are coming to the business event. Armed with this information, you can know what to say and feel more confident when you are networking.
Choose Quality and Not Quantity
When you are at a business event in the UK, there will potentially be a lot of people in attendance. For example, at one of the popular RX events, you will get the opportunity to meet many in your industry and really have the chance to network. But, a tip you have to remember is that it is best to create good relationships with just a few people. There is a temptation to try to meet everyone and have conversations left, right and center. But, in reality, this is not going to work. There are always going to be other events you can attend. Concentrate on trying to create meaningful conversations that are going to lead to somewhere afterwards.
Hand Out Business Cards
Having conversations at business events is great. This is exactly what you want to be doing and to get to know people. But, you also have to make sure that you follow up on that conversation. In other words, you do not want to simply walk away and have achieved nothing. A way to do this is to hand out business cards. This is going to give people the opportunity to contact you further. This way, you can make sure that your conversation can actually lead to something.
Know When to Listen
One of the common mistakes people make when it comes to networking is making a conversation all about themselves. You need to know when you listen. Remember that this is a two-way conversation. Yes, you are going to introduce yourself and talk about what you can offer. But, you also have to let the other person speak and say what they want to say. This way, you can work towards building a relationship where the other person feels valued and that you are listening to them. What’s more, you can then speak and they are more likely to listen too.
|
