Everything you need to know about...

Networking Events

PRO TIP:

Find someone standing alone to start talking to. Even if it’s a student or fellow young professional, it will make you more comfortable with networking.

PRO TIP:

Find someone standing alone to start talking to. Even if it’s a student or fellow young professional, it will make you more comfortable with networking.

Top 10 

Networking Events

Tips

  1. Figure out what you want to get out of the event before you go.

    See if there’s a guest list and scope out anyone that might be beneficial to talk to.

    This will help you ensure that you're using the time well.

    Are you there to find companies to apply to? Are you trying to learn about someone in the same field as you?

  2. Follow up within 48 hours

    Email or connect on Linkedin quickly.  Reference something about your conversation and mention how you met. Always leave a note when connecting with someone on Linkedin.

  3. Don't force your resume on them, it's not a job application

    You're trying to connect, it's not only about getting a job. It could lead to that, but don't make that your primary goal.

  4. Don't just stand next to people that you know - the goal is to meet new connections [In-person events]

    Pick times to meet up with your friends if you feel anxious at the event. But make goals to meet a few people in between.

  5. Say their name when you introduce yourself, “Nice to meet you XX”

    This shows you are listening and humanizes the interaction more. It also makes it easier to remember names when you say it aloud first.

    If you can't pronounce it, ASK again how to say it properly.

  6. Don't stuff your face or get drunk

    It’s easy to get caught up in the yummy food, but stay focused! Eat a bigger meal before you get there so you’re not only focused on the food. You can use the snacks as a conversation starter, and who doesn’t love free food? But don’t use this as a replacement for dinner.

  7. Use the bathroom to take breaks if you're feeling overwhelmed [In-person events]

    Sometimes I go to the bathroom a few times and just sit for a couple minutes to have a sense of silence because main networking events can be really over-stimulating, even for extroverted people.

  8. If you use business cards, write a personalized message before giving your card to someone [In-person events]

    This is so it feels more memorable for them. Your card will stick out more when they look through them later. ie. a recommendation you made of a book or article.It will help spark a connection rather than a transaction.

  9. Look for physical openings in spaces [In-person events]

    Look for open groups of people standing in a V formation rather than a closed shape, like an O.

  10. Do not try to approach people right by the entrance [In-person events]

    People need to take in everything when they first arrive and don't want to be bombarded.

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