Networking is a valuable skill that can develop careers and breed partnerships. To make connections at an event, you must learn to prepare, strategize and start conversations. With a little experience and confidence, you can multiply your connections at every event you attend.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparing for the Event
Step 1. Find out who the event organizer is
If you have a connection with the person, strengthen your connection some time in advance. Contact them to let them know you'd be happy to donate your services if it's a charity event.
Step 2. Set goals for yourself
Networking for the first time should start with a single goal, such as meeting two new people or getting two business cards. Experienced extroverts may want to try to get an invite to an exclusive community service organization or association.
Step 3. Practice your body language
Maintain positive body language, with arms relaxed at either side of the body, feet hip-width apart, nodding and smiling. If you have a weak posture, get in the habit of standing straight.
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Do not cross your arms and legs when you are sitting and standing. This is a negative and defensive posture that will probably work against you.
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Get used to eye contact. You should be able to look someone in the eye when they meet, but break eye contact before you start staring.
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Don't be afraid to speak with your hands. It's better to move your hands to make your point clear than to cross them or touch your neck and face. Hand gestures show confidence, as do eye contact and standing with your feet apart.
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Step 4. Make a business card
Always carry your business card with you so you can easily exchange contact information. Bring a pen too in case you want to write a private message to a new acquaintance.
Step 5. Revise your introductory speech
If you're starting a new business, looking for investors or trying to get support for a cause, you should prepare a 30-second persuasive speech. Practice how to incorporate the speech into everyday communication in a comfortable way, so you don't sound like you've rehearsed before.
Step 6. Take the time to groom yourself and choose clothes
Find out how most people dress for the occasion and go for a similar look. Looking professional and well-groomed will work in your favor when trying to start a conversation.
Part 2 of 3: Strategy
Step 1. Fill in your ID
Stick it on the chest on the right, under the shoulder. People's eyes, especially right-handed ones, will be drawn that way when they shake your hand.
Step 2. Identify people who are standing alone or who are just starting to mingle
They will be more open to starting conversations with strangers. Keep in mind that it can be harder to leave one person and one group when you want to make another connection, so make sure you don't talk to one person all night.
Step 3. Move to groups of three
Three people usually have room for one more person in their conversation. Choose a group of three people standing in an open formation, with an open space between them or near the perimeter; this group gave a better chance than people standing close together in a whisper.
Step 4. Stand in a high-traffic area
Positioning yourself near the sideboard or registration desk will make it more likely that you will meet people you know, introduce yourself to the organizers and choose the people you want to meet.
Step 5. Introduce the person you just met
Show that you remember their names and personal information by taking the lead role in group conversations. You can be the glue that holds people together.
Step 6. Don't spend all your time with friends and coworkers
Your goal is to make new connections, so before the event, tell your friends about this if you think they'll be offended. Ask them to introduce you to other people if they have good connections.
Part 3 of 3: Starting a Conversation
Step 1. Melt the mood
Don't try words that are too complicated or funny. Here's a simple way to start talking to other people.
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Compliment the person's taste for drinks if it looks like you're drinking the same thing.
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Try commenting on appetizers, weather or sports. These topics are considered to be a “breakdown” so the person will understand what you mean.
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Ask what companies the person you're talking to is associated with.
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Ask the person's impression. People love to give their opinion, so don't be afraid to say "What do you think about this year's theme?"
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Avoid negative impressions. Don't make the first thing you say to someone as a negative comment. You will create the atmosphere for negative interactions, not positive ones.
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Step 2. Shake the hand of the person you are introduced to
Shake their hands firmly for three seconds while maintaining eye contact.
Step 3. Keep asking open-ended questions about the other person
Don't dig too deep, but show interest. Most people will eventually ask how you relate to the organizer or the event.
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Avoid questions that can be answered with a yes or no, especially at the beginning of a conversation. Such questions will give people a reason to talk a little and excuse themselves.
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Step 4. Listen
Dedicate the majority of your time listening, more than talking about yourself. If you are patient, the person you are talking to will touch on a topic of mutual interest that will strengthen the conversation.
Pay attention to these shared interests so you can remember them the next time you meet that person
Step 5. Forget the conversations that didn't go well
You won't get along with everyone, so accept that some rejections will be part of the connection event. Move immediately to a new group or person, rather than dwelling on the conversation.
Step 6. Offer your help on something someone is interested in
Volunteering to offer your services to a community or charitable cause can develop new relationships and connections.
Step 7. Provide a business card when you have successfully established a meaningful connection
Many people make the mistake of handing out business cards to everyone. Give your business card to special connections you want to contact in the future.
