Tips to Effectively Survive Networking Events

Networking events are primarily organized to meet business and social networking needs of enterprises. Hundreds of professionals participate in networking events held at different points of time to make new contacts, generate effective leads, and develop business opportunities.

Networking is hard and very few are adept at this game of generating quality contacts. For most individuals such occasions tend to be full of situations which may be monotonous in nature and small talk. Every professional should be aware of the formalities and the etiquette in order to mingle with attendees to achieve their business goals. Let's talk about some tips which may prove to be effective and would help you make the most of these events.

Walk into the Room Smartly

Don't just stand still after entering the room where the event is being hosted. You can either look for your friends who are already there or else go to the registration desk to find out the whereabouts of the speaker or the host. Instead of heading straight towards your seat or the bar, it is good to meet up with your friends or join a group of people discussing the latest market trends or stock exchange reports.

Introduce Yourself

When meeting up a new person or a group, you should introduce yourself first, and then tell them a little about the company you work for, your designation and most importantly how being associated with you can benefit them. Don't just wait for others to ask what you do, etc. You should frame a small introductory paragraph in your mind which should ideally comprise of phrases that should easily catch the attention of your new friends. However, do not try to dominate the over the group and ensure that it doesn't sound like a speech.

Have Honest Conversations

It means you should participate in a conversation healthily and smartly - it should not look like you are forcing yourself to chat or trying very hard to butt into an interesting dialogue going on between some of the people. In case an individual asks you about your role you should explain it in plain, easy to understand terms without being too technical about it. Remember, your goal is to allow interested individuals to be acquainted with you and not listen to a sales pitch.

Give Your Business Card plus Collect Other's Cards

After a successful introductory phase and participating in useful discussions, it is now time to give your business card to the ones who in your assessment may be interested in doing business with you and your company. You should approach potential contacts and in turn ask them to give their cards for future follow ups. In this way, you can establish a personal and professional rapport with prospective clients and business associates. Also, you should note down their social networking link ups to be able to add them to your friend list.

Follow Up Post Event

Your research and physical presence in a networking event will go to waste unless you follow up with your contacts after the event! You should communicate with your target contacts at least 3 days post the meeting. It is better to email the person rather than to call him or her on the first instance. Once your target responds, find out the best ways to keep the conversation going!