Key Takeaways
Networking can and should be authentic; it’s just about carving out a genuine connection. With a bit of preparation, you can attend networking events feeling grounded and confident.
Why Authentic Networking Matters
Most people have misconceptions about networking: it’s pointless, everyone is out to get what they want, it’s intimidating. And while this may be true for some networking events, it isn’t true for all. Despite this, how do you make the most of a networking event?
Networking isn’t just about swapping business cards or delivering the perfect elevator pitch. It’s about building genuine connections with people, regardless of whether they can land you a big promotion. For many of us, even the thought of networking can bring on a wave of nerves.
“What should I say?” “Who do I talk to?” “What if I come on too strong?”
The truth is, great networking doesn’t start when you walk into the room. It starts the moment you decide to go! With a little preparation and a mindset shift, you can transform those nerves into confidence and truly feel like the event was worth your precious time.
Many networking events begin with an official welcome or check-in. You’ll sign in, collect a name badge, and maybe receive an outline of the schedule.
The host or organiser might ‘open’ the group, letting everyone know what to expect from the event. This helps to set the tone and ease some of the nerves.
Preparation Not Perfection
You wouldn’t be alone if you were feeling nervous before a networking event. Even the most confident professional feels some nerves when they enter a new environment. The key to easing that anxiety? Preparation and having a networking strategy.
Just like you wouldn’t walk into a meeting without checking your notes, you should come prepared to a networking event. If you’re really shy and introverted, this will make an especially big difference.
What’s Your Networking Intention?
What do you want to get out of the networking event? Instead of ‘goals’ like finding a new client or becoming close to a leader in your industry, think about setting some intentions like:
- I want to learn something new from someone
- I would like to build a new connection that feels genuine
- I’ll enjoy the experience rather than enduring it
This helps shift your mindset from performance to connection, allowing you to relax a bit! It will also make a perceptible difference to the people you’re in the room with.
Keep the conversation flowing, not forced
Let’s be honest, almost everyone hates small talk, chatting about the weather or what you’re having for dinner that evening doesn’t breed inspiration. On the flipside, only asking questions about where someone works or their job title can seem like you only want to know their credentials.
Making an effort to get to know the person behind the role will help you form those authentic connections.
- Ask open-ended questions that require more than a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response. The best conversations start with curiosity and an openness to learn more
- Listen carefully and don’t speak over anyone else while they’re talking, not only because it’s good manners, but it also makes a good impression
- If your chat has run its course, politely exit the conversation
Double-check the schedule
Having an idea of what to expect from the event can help ensure you get the most out of it. Many networking events have some type of schedule that includes mingling, a presentation, and small breakout group time.
Before you attend the networking session, double-check the schedule and consider:
If there’s a skill-sharing session, do you need to take pen and paper?
Are there refreshments, or do you need to eat beforehand?
Is there a dress code, and do you have an outfit ready?
Networking With WISE Collective
WISE Collective has been set up in a way that alleviates many of the fears you may be facing before attending a business networking event. We have the same agenda every month, including inductions, an education session, and a time to mastermind any business troubles. This means you’ll know exactly what is going to happen before you attend each time.
If you’re interested in learning more about what WISE Collective offers, we invite you to come and meet us. Your first circle is free, so you can decide if you’d like to join before making any commitments.
