As we know networking can be a game-changer for your career or business, and events offer the perfect opportunity to expand your circle.

Whether you’re attending an exhibition, conference, seminar, awards dinner, or casual meet-up, here’s some top tips on how to maximise your networking potential before, during, and after the event.

Pre-event: Be Prepared

• Set clear goals: Know what you want to achieve. Are you looking for potential clients, partners, or industry insights? Clear goals will help you focus your energy.
• Research the attendees: many events offer attendee lists or speakers. Do some research on who will be there and target individuals you’d like to meet.
• Perfect your elevator pitch: have a concise introduction ready – what you do, your value, and what you’re hoping to achieve by connecting. But don’t be overly salesy or pushy, at first it is about getting to know someone.
• Bring business cards or digital alternatives: have a way to share your information quickly, whether it’s a physical business card or a digital one through LinkedIn or an app.

During: Be Engaged

• Start conversations: don’t wait for others to approach you. Step up and introduce yourself with a friendly smile and handshake.
• Listen actively: be genuinely interested in what others have to say. Ask thoughtful questions that show you’re engaged and open to learning.
• Make connections, not sales: networking isn’t about immediately making a deal. Focus on building relationships and finding mutual benefits for future collaboration.
• Attend sessions and workshops: engaging in event activities like workshops or panel discussions opens natural opportunities for conversations with like-minded professionals.

Post-event: Follow Up (the bit where most fail)

• Send a personalised message: after the event, reach out to the people you met. A brief email or LinkedIn message can reinforce the connection. Mention something specific from your conversation to make it personal.
• Connect on social media: if you didn’t exchange cards, LinkedIn is a great way to keep in touch. Be sure to include a personalised message when sending the invite, but remember on standard LinkedIn accounts, you only have 200 characters – so make it work.
• Stay engaged: continue nurturing the relationships you’ve formed by engaging with their content online or setting up follow-up meetings to explore opportunities.

By preparing in advance, being present during the event, and following up afterward, you’ll build a stronger network and create lasting, meaningful, and squawktastic connections.