Getting ready for an upcoming event or convention? These are prime opportunities for networking and relationship building. But these common blunders can rob you of your networking success. To get the most out of your next event, avoid these four networking no-nos.
1. Not preparing
Many will show up at a networking event without so much as a stack of business cards. As the common adage goes, “When you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Success at your networking event starts before you even walk through the doors. You can begin by finding out which companies or representatives will be there. Who would you like to talk to? What research do you need to do in order to have a productive conversation. Your Nodily app shows you who will be in attendance, allowing you to maximize the time by doing a bit of advance research. Make the most of the event by doing your homework.
2. Not having a strong elevator pitch
Don’t beat about the bush; help others know exactly who you are, what you do and what you’re looking for with a focused 20 seconds elevator pitch. You don’t have to talk fast, but you do have to speak with intention. Your elevator pitch is your 20 seconds to make a connection that could potentially lead to a business relationship or partnership. If you don’t have this tool in your kit, it’s time to get writing. Click here for tips on crafting the perfect elevator pitch.
3. Spending too much time at the bar
Networking can definitely be intimidating, and the food and drink enticing, but this is your time to do business even if it feels a little uncomfortable. You didn’t come to hang out at the bar, you came to be visible, to get in front of other business people and to take part in real-life, face-to-face conversations. And over-drinking can easily damage your credibility among the people you may be meeting. Bypass the bar and head into the crowd.
4. Dropping the ball
The networking event is not the main event. It’s merely the beginning, the introduction, the invitation to continue the conversation. When you get back to the office, don’t just let those business cards sit there—pick out a handful of individuals with whom you had promising conversations and follow up by phone or email. Connect on various social media platforms. Ask yourself how you can be a resource for the other person or perhaps provide an introduction. Do what you can to keep the conversation going and the relationship growing.
