Fellows Bytes: How do you work a room at a networking event?
In our new miniseries we tackle mistruths and myths surrounding the recruitment industry. In honour of the upcoming INTA Annual Meeting in Orlando, this edition is focused on how we effectively work a room at a networking event.
Believe it or not we don’t actually spend the entire event taking advantage of the free food and drink on offer. The point of a networking event is to, well, network and further your contact base with meaningful relationships in the industry (as well as taking advantage of the free food and drink on offer). Here are a few pointers on how, in our opinion, to make the most of your time at a networking event:
Target an open group, or approach individuals
After a quick walk or glance round the room it can become apparent from early on which groups are there to actively network, and those who are life-long friends intent on a catch up. Unless you like a challenge, stick to the groups who have left space for you to join rather than squeezing in on a conversation you will unlikely be able to contribute to. Another route would be to team up with other individuals and start your own group. Networking alongside colleagues from complimentary businesses can be particularly effective when meeting new people.
Know when to quit (and how to do it politely)
There comes a point in any conversation when it naturally comes to an end. Use that as an opportunity to excuse yourself and continue networking elsewhere in the room, instead of desperately trying to think of a new topic. Everyone is there for the same reason, so don’t make excuses about having to leave the event only to awkwardly bump into them again later on. Exchange pleasantries (and a business card if the conversation went well) and move on.
Choose your location wisely
Location can play a very important part in you finding a willing conversation partner; too close to the entrance/exit results you becoming lost in the endless flow of traffic of people arriving/leaving and standing by the toilets is never a good idea for obvious reasons. We find that sitting at a table (if available) can offer a steady stream of people, and the buffet always helps as a conversation starter if you’re struggling to think of one and also because, food.
Show an interest in your group, it’s not all about you
In order for you to make a successful connection you need to be able to qualify whether it will benefit both you and the person you are speaking with. This means listening to what they have to say and determining whether it is valuable to you and your business. It’s all well and good you reeling off your sales pitch and collecting a business card, only to come away with the contact details of a regicide legal specialist (unless you’re looking for that kind of thing, in which case you should probably keep that to yourself).
Got a question you want answered? Get in touch with us via email: [email protected].