How can you maximize the impact of a networking event?

Networking events can be great opportunities to connect with other IT professionals, learn from their experiences, and showcase your skills and expertise. However, to make the most of these events, you need to prepare well, follow up effectively, and avoid some common pitfalls. In this article, we will share some tips on how to maximize the impact of a networking event and build lasting professional relationships.

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1 Set clear goals

Before you attend a networking event, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and who you want to meet. Do some research on the event, the speakers, the attendees, and the topics. Identify the people who are relevant to your interests, goals, and skills, and plan how to approach them. You can also prepare some questions, elevator pitches, and business cards to make a good impression.

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Steve Bakanov

GLOBAL TRANSFORMATIONAL TECHNOLOGY EXECUTIVE Passionate about maturing global teams, products , operations, and services
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To maximize the impact of a networking event you need : Preparation: Research the event and attendees, set specific goals, and prepare an effective elevator pitch. Bring business cards or have a digital alternative for efficient contact exchange. Meaningful Engagement: Focus on quality conversations, practicing active listening, and showing genuine interest in others. Engage in discussions and demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm. Effective Follow-Up: Post-event, reach out to new contacts with personalized messages, recalling conversation details. Use platforms like LinkedIn for ongoing engagement and propose further discussions if relevant.

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2 Be proactive and polite

At the event, don't be shy or passive. Instead, be proactive and polite, and initiate conversations with the people you want to meet. Introduce yourself, explain what you do and what you are looking for, and ask open-ended questions. Listen actively, show interest, and offer value. Avoid monopolizing the conversation, interrupting others, or being too pushy or salesy. Remember to smile, make eye contact, and use positive body language.

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3 Expand your network

Don't limit yourself to the people you already know or those who are in your field. Networking events are a chance to expand your network and learn from different perspectives. Seek out people who have different backgrounds, roles, or skills than you, and explore how you can collaborate, exchange ideas, or support each other. You never know who might be a valuable connection or a potential referral in the future.

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4 Follow up promptly

After the event, don't let the connections you made go cold. Follow up promptly with the people you met, preferably within 24 hours. Send them a personalized email, thank them for their time, and remind them of your conversation. You can also connect with them on social media platforms, such as LinkedIn or Twitter, and share relevant content or feedback. Keep the communication going, and look for opportunities to meet again or work together.

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5 Evaluate your performance

To improve your networking skills and results, you should evaluate your performance after each event. Ask yourself what went well, what didn't, and what you can do better next time. You can also ask for feedback from the people you met, or from a trusted colleague or friend who attended the event with you. Learn from your mistakes, celebrate your successes, and set new goals for the next event.

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6 Keep networking

Networking is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process of building and maintaining professional relationships. To maximize the impact of a networking event, you should keep networking regularly, both online and offline. Join relevant groups, forums, or communities, attend webinars, workshops, or conferences, and offer your help, advice, or insights. Networking can help you grow your career, expand your knowledge, and enhance your reputation in the IT industry.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Raimundo Lopez

Certified Business Consultant by The US Insititute of Diplomacy & Human Rights, Founder & CEO Advantechs Corporate Enterprises, Inc.
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Sow seeds to obtain a plentiful of fruit Generously hand samples of your products if physical or demos if digital, that explain how your products or services may be a great choice elaborating on the unique advantages and value propositions they entail

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How can you maximize the impact of a networking event?

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1 Set clear goals

2 Be proactive and polite

3 Expand your network

4 Follow up promptly

5 Evaluate your performance

6 Keep networking

7 Here’s what else to consider

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