Let’s admit it: networking can be super scary. While these types of events are super beneficial for career and professional development, some people avoid them due to fear. This shouldn’t have to happen! Here are some tips for feeling and doing your best at networking events:
1) Be prepared
Knowing what you’re going to say is the best way to calm your nerves. Before you go to an event, research the speakers and companies that are going to be there and see what type of work they do. Have your questions ready and make them specific to! It shows that you truly care about the company and what they do. Bring printed copies of your resume on nice paper and business cards if you have them.
2) Use your connections
It can be super scary to walk up to someone cold. Find a friend or peer to introduce you if they have a connection. Also, make sure to mention any similarities that you and the professional might have, especially if they mention it. It will forge a more genuine connection and is something that you can follow up on.
3) Body language
Make sure to stand up straight with your legs firmly planted on the ground. This will make you look confident and help you stay balanced better. Try to keep things out of your hands unless necessary as nervousness might show if you are fiddling around. Keep your hands at your side, in front of you or in your pockets. Sometimes, I feel better if I do some power poses in the bathroom before I go in to the event to get my motivation up. Don’t forget to smile!
4) Follow up
Sometimes the most important part of a networking event happens after it ends. Make sure to get a business card from every person you talk to and reach out to them no more than 24 hours after. A great tip that I learned is to write down something that was important in your conversation on the back of a business card and include that in your email. This demonstrates that it isn’t a copied-and-pasted email that was sent to a bunch of people and that you listened well.
The most important thing to remember is that everyone else in that room is probably feeling the same exact nerves that you are, and it is totally okay! These events are intimidating for both introverts and extroverts.
Here is a quote that I always try to remember during events: “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” – Stephen R. Covey
It is so important to remember that you are there to learn. Appreciate the opportunity and enjoy it.