You’re at a Networking Event…Now What?
Posted on March 27, 2012 by Jill Huggett, One of Thousands of Career Coaches on Noomii.
Easy steps to networking. It works whether you are outgoing or shy!
Let’s back up a few steps so you avoid this question when you are already at the event. First, what networking events should you go to? It all depends on your needs. Whatever your need, pick a networking event where the people you want to meet go to. Remember, it’s about the quality of the network not the quantity. Second, set some goals before the event. Third, have your elevator speech well rehearsed. (who you are, what you do and why you are at the event).
For example, let’s say you are in a job search. Here are the steps to networking effectively.
Before the event:
- Find your industry networks. You can find them through search engines, www.meetup.com,Llinkedin groups that meet locally.
Pick an event that offers some value such as a good speaker with a relevant topic.
Set a goal: meet 3 new people and deliver your elevator speech.
Ask at least 2 people for a follow-up meeting.
Get negative thoughts out of your head. Eg: I’m too shy, I don’t want to bother people;, I don’t have anything to offer.
Have positive thoughts: I am a valuable employee and my next company will be happy they hired me. People enjoy helping other people and I’m going to give someone that gift by helping me.
At the event:__ - Look for or ask around for a contact at your target companies and in your profession.
Deliver your elevator speech to those you meet. Listen to theirs. If this person may provide value in your job search, ask to meet after the event to speak in more detail.
Explain that you will call them tomorrow to arrange a good time to meet for 30 minutes by phone or over coffee.
After the event:
Do what you said you would! If you asked someone to have coffee and said you would call tomorrow, call!
Celebrate your success for achieving your goals at the event.
And that’s it. It doesn’t sound so intimidating anymore, does it? It is highly effective so give it a try and let me know how it goes.
