I’ve often heard it said that networking is an ‘art form’ – but I think that’s rubbish. The truth is, anyone can be a nifty networker with just a little bit of insider ‘know-how’:
1. Get there early
This sounds simple (and it is) but if you’re slightly less confident when it comes to networking, it pays to make sure you’re punctual. Arriving at an event ‘bright-eyed and bushy-tailed’ at the scheduled time gives you a head-start on making the best connections, along with the time and space to get conversations going before things get crowded and noise levels increase. What’s more, not only can it be intimidating to enter an event when it’s already in full-swing, it also puts you in the awkward position where you either have to loiter and approach groups of people as an interloper, or else skulk around looking for someone else on their own to chat to – neither of which is ideal.
If you're already there when people arrive, others will naturally drift towards you, putting you in prime position for impactful networking.
2. Stand out from the crowd
When you’re at a networking event, make it as easy as possible for others to approach you through visual clues about who you are and your interests. For example, I once met a woman at an event who was wearing a beautiful black and blue brocade coat. I complimented her on it, and she replied with ‘thank you, everyone always comments on it – it’s my networking coat’. I took her cue, and now when I attend an event where I know I’ll be meeting new people I’m always sure to wear something a bit ‘out of the ordinary’, maybe a vintage brooch, or a bold necklace, or a striking pattern. Conversation openers amongst strangers can be tricky, so by giving people an ‘in’ you’re inviting them to strike up a conversation with you in a way that feels natural and non-threatening. For you, it might be a pin-badge with the name of your favourite band, or a slogan t-shirt, an unusual pair of glasses or even just carrying a tote bag from a particular gallery exhibition or charity. But whatever you wear, when networking do think about how effectively you’re conveying your identity and interests through your appearance.
3. Be ‘pitch perfect’
With the best will in the world, nobody wants to be on the receiving end of a rambling rendition of your life story, so put some thought into how you’re going to introduce yourself and your work before the event. Think about how best to convey what you do, what your plans are and what types of connections you’re looking to make in a way that’s concise and engaging (ideally no more than 30 seconds). Practice saying it – you could even record it on your phone and listen back – and don’t forget to update your ‘pitch’ regularly as your priorities develop and shift. Networking events are often time-limited, so by keeping things punchy you give yourself the best chance of making as many connections as possible.
4. The Q&A is your friend
Lots of networking events will feature a guest speaker or presentation, and there’ll usually be an opportunity for audience questions afterwards.
Always arm yourself with an intelligent, relevant question to ask the speaker or panel, should the opportunity arise.
The Q&A is your golden chance to shine and get the undivided attention of everyone in the room. If you nail this one, you can guarantee you’ll have a queue of people who want to make your introduction afterwards, and you’ll have significantly raised your profile and credibility.
5. Follow-up on connections ‘IRL’
In today’s quick-fire digital world, it’s easy to forget that human connections need to be cultivated over time. Whatever you’re looking for, it's highly unlikely that you’ll find exactly that at just one networking event. That’s why it’s important to follow-up with your new contacts after everyone’s gone home, and build lasting relationships. Drop them an email, add them on LinkedIn, meet for a coffee, stay in touch and see how you can work together and support each other. Every new person you meet is actually a gatekeeper to their own personal network of colleagues, collaborators and connections so take the time to dig deeper and identify areas for reciprocal benefit.
Creative Cuppa happens on the first Thursday of each month. Find out more and book your place at our next event to put some of these networking hacks into practice.
