It’s no secret that the 2020 global pandemic swiftly changed the way we operated our daily lives. As the stay-at-home orders began to go into effect, everyone was forced to quickly adapt to a new lifestyle. One that did not include going into an office, hanging out with friends at restaurants, and attending large gatherings. One such event that was caught up and done away with during the tumultuous year was in-person networking. Many businesses attempted to keep the energy of networking up by hosting virtual Zoom events and webinars, but the effect was not quite as impactful as meeting face to face.
But as things begin to round a corner and we return to a (semi) normal way of living, many businesses and organizations are looking into revisiting the idea of in-person networking. It’s arguably the most effective way to make yourself valuable within your industry, stand out from your competitors, and potentially gain loyal employees, customers, or clients. But if you’re like the millions of Americans that gained increased levels of social anxiety while isolating at home last year, you may have forgotten about a lot of the basics of networking and attending events.
Luckily, we have several insider tips and reminders on the best practices to utilize when jumping back into the in-person networking pool.
Smile and Make Eye Contact
Even if you’re attending a “mask mandatory” event, make it a priority to always smile when meeting new people. Whether they can see it or not, people can tell when others are smiling, and it’s an instant mood lifter. It allows people to make an easier and more genuine connection with you because you are going out of your way to make them feel comfortable. Plus, it will severely help your confidence and shake off those last minute nerves.
Eye contact is extremely important for in-person networking events because it signals to your new connection that you are engaged, paying attention, and understanding their needs. Showing that you are a good listener exemplifies far more value than anything else that you could “sell” about yourself.
Be Yourself
This may sound arbitrary, but the best approach you can take at any networking opportunity is to be yourself. Whether you are attending an event in hopes of finding a job, or you are a business that’s looking to increase your conversions, it’s best to start off on a foot that displays your most real self.
Instead of “selling” yourself and your value, simply share your business or prospects, and speak from a genuine place. The energy you give off about your career or business will not go unnoticed if it’s explained in a way that doesn’t come off as sales-y.
Be Respectful of any COVID-19 Regulations
Despite the return of in-person networking events, there will likely still be a few regulations in place. Do your research beforehand and determine what sort of restrictions you may run into at the event.
Whether that is a mandatory mask rule, providing your vaccination card or a recently negative COVID test, or regularly social distancing, respect the rules that are put in place for the event. It would be a huge bummer to spend all of this time prepping, researching, and rehearsing your pitch only to realize that you won’t be let in because you forgot your mask at home.
Do your Research
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Nothing will help you feel more confident and ready for your next networking event than doing your research beforehand. It will help you stand out immensely if you come knowing the background of your fellow participants or job prospects you’d like to work for, as well as a few questions to get the conversations started.
This makes your presentation look effortless, rather than a forced conversation that you were not prepared for. And that, in turn, will help you make a lasting impression.
Learn How you Can Add Value to your Connections
Are you a top-tier employee that’s a trailblazer in your industry? A company that looks out for their employees through generous paid time off and insurance benefits? A business that can cut a company’s marketing budget in half, while still delivering high-quality content?
Figure out your value. Successful networking is all about finding and making connections, but it shouldn’t only benefit you. By figuring out ways that you can help others at the event, and make their lives easier, you’re providing a service that is mutually beneficial to both parties.
The Bottom Line
The most important thing to remember after any networking event is to always follow up with your connections. Your networking skills are only as strong as your ability to make a connection in the end. Follow up with the connections that exited you the most within a few days of the event. Even if it doesn’t immediately churn out the results you are looking for, it’s a great way to get (and stay on) the radar of your connections.
