Networking events – that means small talk, often boring conversations about products and the uncomfortable moment when you want to get out of a discussion but don’t know how. That doesn’t sound very effective and it also sounds like a waste of time. Professional meetings of this kind are by no means pointless. If they are well planned and prepared, networking events can help to make your own concept and company better known, to meet new potential customers and to establish interesting business relationships.
No more long and barren evenings! These tips can help you to make your next network meeting more effective and successful.
Select suitable meetings
When it comes to networking events, one thing is clear: less is more. Instead of participating in all the events to which you have been invited, you should only choose selected ones who will really help you and your company. It is best to include certain criteria in your selection, such as the reputation of the organizer or the venue. Because especially at smaller, more manageable meetings, it is often easier to make new contacts. There are also times when your company has something new to say. So the meeting is guaranteed not to be a waste of time.
The alpha and omega: The preparation
Inquire with the organizer for the guest list. In this way, you can get an overview of those present in advance and find out which of the invited guests might be possible new business partners or potential customers. Take a look at the LinkedIn profiles as well as the company websites, so you can keep the important but uninteresting small talk a little shorter and go a little deeper with your background knowledge. Also, practice getting out of conversations elegantly. The evening is too short to socialize with just one person.
Leave the mask at home
A networking event is not about getting some deals right away. So leave your businesswoman or businessman’s mask at home. Instead, relax and enjoy the evening, even if you have decided to get to know certain people. Each of the people will find the conversation with you much more interesting if you are authentic, relaxed and show interest in the other person. Nevertheless, don’t forget your business cards, which ideally have your name printed on it, a picture of you and a key message instead of just a company name. If the card can also be written on, the other person is guaranteed not to forget you along with their own notes.
Keep in touch
Everyone knows that a relationship is like a delicate plant: if it is not cared for, it dies. This is why you should try to keep in touch with your newfound contacts. Even if they are apparently of no use to you at first, you never know for what and when this contact might become important for you. So write an e-mail now and then, have a phone call and inquire about new developments. Try to find out where your work could possibly be connected to that of your contact.
Networking with a difference
Have you attended a number of typical networking events? Be brave and organize your own meeting with existing contacts. Instead of just keeping the connection virtual, you can bring yourself up to date in a personal conversation. Your contacts, who might have been able to make interesting new relationships through you, will also thank you.
The change of location can also bring new wind to Treffen. How about a wine tasting or lunch instead of a lengthy evening event? Your creativity will flow anew and maybe you will get to know a new business partner that you would otherwise never have come across.