Feeling out of place at a networking event with industry peers?

Most networking events are preceded by a timeline, location, and additional activities provided by the host. This is the chance to reach out with soft introductions and a request to meet upon arrival to the event. Create a timeline, a purpose, and a plan for effective follow up. This will ensure maximum opportunities for building relationships and driving more business.

"Success depends upon previous preparation." –Confucius Research Attendees: Know who will be there and identify key people you want to meet. Prepare Questions: Think of insightful questions related to industry trends and challenges. Set Goals: Decide on specific outcomes you want from the event, such as making three new contacts.

It can start simple by commenting on the food/drinks, ask them what they like or if they have anything flashy (fun tie, shoe or interesting jewelry comment on it.) A great trick I learnt from a PR Friend of mine especially if you are a women is go in for bright colours and have some interesting striking jewellery, bag. Something to stand out from the crowd. This will also give the other person amunition to fire when approaching you "Oh this colour looks good on you" etc,.

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." –Peter Drucker Use a Compliment: Start with a genuine compliment about their work or recent achievements. Share a Relevant Anecdote: Mention a recent industry event or news story to spark conversation. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage detailed responses to foster deeper dialogue.

Quebre o gelo para se sentir mais à vontade. Inicie conversas com perguntas simples e genuínas, como "O que trouxe você a este evento?" ou "Quais tendências você tem observado no setor?". Mostrar interesse genuíno nas respostas ajuda a criar uma conexão autêntica. Compartilhe algo sobre você e busque encontrar pontos em comum. Usar o humor de forma leve também pode ajudar a descontrair o ambiente. Lembre-se de que todos estão ali para se conectar, e uma abordagem amigável pode transformar uma interação inicial em um relacionamento valioso.

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." –Helen Keller Discuss Shared Challenges: Bring up common industry issues and brainstorm solutions. Highlight Mutual Connections: Mention any shared acquaintances or professional experiences. Relate Personal Interests: Find out about hobbies or interests that you both enjoy outside of work.

Encontre um terreno comum para se sentir mais à vontade. Identificar interesses ou experiências compartilhadas facilita a conexão. Pergunte sobre os desafios comuns do setor, tendências recentes ou eventos interessantes que ambos possam ter participado. Compartilhar histórias ou opiniões sobre tópicos relevantes pode ajudar a construir um vínculo. Quando você encontra algo em comum, a conversa flui naturalmente e a sensação de deslocamento diminui, permitindo que você aproveite ao máximo as oportunidades de networking.

Sharing genuine and relatable stories allows others to not only learn about us, but opens the floor for them to reciprocate. It's important to gain a feel for our audience prior to networking. Religion and politics are well-known as 'off limit' topics, so strive for ones that everyone can contribute to equally. Show passion for your profession! Even the most mundane careers can be interesting if presented in a way that shows you truly love what you do.