Tips for Your Next Networking Event

The advice that everyone gets when they are looking for a job or wanting to learn more in their industry is to attend networking events.

If you are in this situation, it a great idea to attend an event. Now the big question is what happens next? We list some tips to get you ready and prepared for your next event. it can be overwhelming, but with the help of the tips will make it a lot easier.

Well, you probably know by now that there is more to networking than just showing up, making small talk and handing out your business cards and enjoying the activities on hand. Such as entertainment and the food.

The best way to network is to sell "you as a brand." Go to the event and allow yourself to interact with people; discuss who you are, what you do by focusing on your experience.

The most important thing to remember, however, is that it takes a little preparation and practice.

Attending an event can be extremely beneficial. We’ve listed some helpful tips that can make attending the event a success.

Set a Realistic Goal Before you attend the event, sit back and ask yourself the specific reason why you’ll be attending this particular event.

Set a solid, achievable and realistic. For instance, say that by the end of the night, your goal was to interact and meet three new individuals. Setting up goals can be beneficial and gives you a purpose for attending. Stay focused and accomplish your goal.

Dress The Part (Attire) As much as people like to ignore the facts, the reality is that the first impression you make is always important. Do some research and check with the organizer or look online to find information regarding the dress code. Take time and pick a professional looking outfit to look highly professional. Wear something comfortable as this will help you exude the needed confidence.

Here is a good article - Dress to Network

Take Your Business Cards with You If you want to ensure that people remember and contact you when they need the service you are providing, hand them your business cards. Always bring a few more cards than you think you'll need. Make sure they are properly protected in a business card case to make sure they are not damaged in any way. Think about printing on a thicker card stock to add additional protection such as 16PT, 22PT gloss laminated business card or a 32PT thick business card.

Be Effective in Your In Your Introduction Firm handshake, a smile and an introduction are the things that should define your presence. Take note of the person’s name and use it in conversation. This will help you look more sincere and professional.

Here is a great article - it may help when it comes to remembering a name when you are first introduced.

Listen Carefully They say that we have two ears so we can listen more than we speak. Apply this in your dialogue. Ask the other person a question as opposed to talking about yourself.

People get more attentive when information is being demanded from them.

Be Sincere Most people approach the issue of networking from a gaining something perspective. The best way to look sincere is to list a few questions about the person’s background and ask them. By doing so, it means you care and you’re interested.

Be Concise When you get your turn to say what is important to you, state it in two or three sentences. People lose interest very quickly when you keep telling endless tales. Stay focused and to the points.

Take Notes This is the easiest way to remember important details. It also shows that you take yourself seriously. Not only will it help you remember everything that occurred during the event, but it will be useful when following up.

Additionally, you can always go back to your notes to go over past information.

Follow Up Look through the business cards you received and make sure you follow up with individuals who you would like to stay in touch with. Set up a time to meet for coffee or a quick lunch to discuss more.

This can be beneficial to do business down the road.

Need Help with a Custom Design If you are looking for a custom design, our in-house graphic designers will be happy to help. Complete the online graphic design form and one of our designer swill be contacting you shortly. View some of our custom designer here.

With the following tips, attending a networking event should be a success.

Trusted brands trust Primo Print: KellerWilliams Realty, Berkshire Hathaway, Allen Tate Real Estate and Re/Max. Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding our printing product for realtors. We’ll be happy to send you a free sample of some of our print products, complete our form here.

Need help with a custom design? We can help! Learn more about our graphic design services by completing our online form.