You're navigating a networking event. How can you form valuable connections while staying composed?

It's equally important to be prepared and to be nimble, so that we can engage with our audience and ready for surprises. Have some examples and exemplars that can surprise the person that you're persuading. Example: You are pitching your project proposal to someone suddenly they asked the weakness of the proposal but you were ready with the strength then your response can be: "I think my proposal is quite interesting and might not have any visible weakness but the project manager, that's me do have a weakness and it is I can't say NO" In the instance above you tweaked the conversation made the context about you and not about project. Hence, saving yourself from falling it flat.

Preparation is the foundation of a successful networking experience. Before attending the event, research the attendees and identify key individuals you want to connect with. Familiarise yourself with their work, interests, and any mutual connections you may have. Having a clear understanding of who you’ll meet and what you’d like to discuss will give you confidence and direction. I always create a list of topics or questions tailored to each person, ensuring I can engage in meaningful conversations that resonate with their interests and expertise.

Making a strong first impression is crucial. Dress appropriately for the event, exuding professionalism and confidence. When you approach someone, smile warmly, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. Introduce yourself succinctly, highlighting your name, role, and something interesting or relevant about yourself. For instance, I often introduce myself by mentioning my role as the founder and CEO of Markman Media and briefly describing my passion for personal branding and connecting people. This not only breaks the ice but also sets the tone for a fruitful conversation.

Engaging in active listening is essential to forming genuine connections. Pay close attention to what the other person is saying, showing interest through nods and appropriate facial expressions. Avoid interrupting and wait for natural pauses to ask follow-up questions. Reflecting on their points and sharing relevant experiences from your own life can deepen the conversation. During an event in Melbourne, I once met a business leader who was passionate about holistic wellness. By actively listening and sharing my journey in integrating wellness into personal branding, we discovered mutual interests and laid the groundwork for a lasting connection.

Networking is a two-way street. Aim to offer value to those you meet, whether through insights, resources, or connections. Share your expertise generously and be open to assisting others. When discussing personal branding, I often share practical tips and strategies I’ve developed, tailoring my advice to the specific needs of the person I’m speaking with. This not only demonstrates my expertise but also builds trust and goodwill.

Following up is a critical step that many overlook. After the event, send personalised messages to the people you connected with, referencing your conversation and expressing your interest in staying in touch. This reinforces your commitment to building a relationship and keeps you on their radar. I usually follow up with a LinkedIn message, adding a personal touch by recalling a specific detail from our chat. This approach has helped me maintain and strengthen connections long after the event has ended.

Networking events can be overwhelming, but maintaining your composure is vital. If you feel anxious, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself of your preparation. Focus on the value you bring to the table and trust in your ability to connect with others. At a recent event, I found myself feeling a bit nervous. I took a moment to centre myself, remembering my mission to bring people and ideas together. This mindset helped me stay poised and present throughout the evening.

In general, use networking events to engage with your existing network. You will be amazed at how often you will meet new contacts through your existing network at an event. Also, don’t be afraid to approach new people, based on the discussion you hear, and introduce yourself. Always remember to follow up with new people you have met.

People appreciate genuine interactions over rehearsed pitches. Share your stories, passions, and even vulnerabilities. This openness can create deeper, more meaningful connections. At one event, I shared my journey of overcoming impostor syndrome and how it shaped my approach to personal branding. This honesty resonated with many attendees, leading to heartfelt conversations and enduring connections.