Tips for Networking in Person

Networking can be challenging regardless of whether it's online or in person.  Both methods have their own particular rules and etiquette that you have to keep track of.  The benefit of online networking is that it's more passive.  You don't have to leave the couch and actually go talk to other people.  It doesn't even require pants.  Since you can build your network, pants-less from the couch, why should you bother getting out and networking in person?

Related: Networking and Online Dating

Networking in person gives you, and everyone else, a chance to get to know each other better.  When you're present physically, you can do things like make eye contact and shake hands.  These things are actually pretty beneficial when you're building a relationship.  And it's more fun than sitting at home trying to make sure you're not getting orange cheese puff powder on your keyboard.  It is, I promise. Besides, there's frequently free snacks and drinks at networking events.  Although I don't suggest just hanging out at the snack table.

Here's what I do suggest;  

1.  Make sure you smile.  This doesn't mean plaster a creepy, plastic grin on your face and turn it on anyone who looks your direction.  Unless you're Wednesday Addams, this won't work for you.  Smile genuinely at other people while making eye contact and say hello.  Most people will respond in kind, especially at a networking event. And this opens the door to....

2.   Introducing yourself.  Once you've made that initial connection with your dazzling smile and brilliantly played hello, follow it up with "My name is....." and a handshake.  They'll automatically introduce themselves and you've got the conversation started.  It's just that easy.  

3.  Ask leading questions about the other person and listen to the answer.  Don't worry so much about what you're going to say next or jump right in with what you do.  Ask about them first, listen to what they have to say, and follow it with a question about what they just told you.  Encouraging someone to talk about themselves, and listening to what they say, is key to having people like you.  You'll make them feel special and that you value their time.  And once they like you, they're much more receptive to what you have to say.

Related:  Making a Great First Impression

4.  Get there on time or even a few minutes early.  If you're one of the first people to arrive you won't be met with an intimidating mass of people already grouped up in conversation.  Instead, you'll be able to position yourself as a greeter, meeting people as they come in.  And you'll have your choice of who to speak with.  Leave that awkward feeling of trying to break into a group to someone else.  



5.  And the most important tip of all, have fun.  Networking isn't boring if you put the focus on learning about other people rather than promoting yourself.  It also takes a lot of pressure off you.  Rather than trying to think of what to say to show everyone how great you are, you just have to ask a few questions and let them do the talking.  Which is really what makes people think you're awesome, anyway.  


I know it's a hassle to get showered, dressed and out in public.  Introducing yourself to, and having conversations with, strangers can be intimidating.  But the connections you make will be worth it.  People are much more likely to help and recommend someone they've met and spoken with in person. Besides, networking events have different snacks than you do at home.  At the very least it'll add some variety to your diet.