Does the thought of networking make you want to hide? You’re not alone. For many people, networking feels intimidating, especially when it’s framed as “working the room” or “pitching yourself.” But here’s a secret: Networking doesn’t have to be stressful or uncomfortable.
In fact, the best networking happens when you stop thinking about it as a sales pitch and start thinking about it as making connections. It’s just people talking to people—and that can be way less scary than it sounds.
Why Networking Still Matters in 2024
Networking is more than just collecting business cards or shaking hands. It’s about building meaningful connections that can lead to new opportunities, advice, or collaborations. Whether you’re looking for a new job, seeking advice, or hoping to grow your business, your network can be one of your biggest assets.
But it’s not just about what you can get—networking is a two-way street. When you approach networking as a way to help others, you’ll find that the benefits often come back to you when you least expect them.
Getting Prepped: 4 Tips to Make Networking Less Stressful
- Keep Your Introduction Simple
No need to memorize a speech. When someone asks, “What do you do?” keep it simple and conversational. Something like, “I help companies with their digital marketing” is enough to get the conversation going. People will ask for more details if they’re interested.
- Pack More Business Cards Than You Think
You never want to run out of business cards mid-event. Always bring extras, and if you want to stand out, try a creative design or unique material like metal business cards from Metal Kards. People are more likely to remember you when your card is a little different.
- Buddy Up
If you’re feeling nervous, bring a friend along. Networking with someone you know can make it easier to start conversations. You can even introduce each other to new contacts, making the whole experience feel less overwhelming.
- Have a Goal, But Stay Flexible
Set a simple goal before the event, like meeting three new people or reconnecting with a past colleague. Having a goal can help guide your conversations, but don’t be rigid about it. The best networking happens when you’re relaxed and open to wherever the conversation takes you.
At the Event: 5 Tips to Help You Navigate Networking Like a Pro
- Take a Moment to Relax Before Entering
Walking into a room full of people can be intimidating, but take a deep breath before you enter. Remember that everyone is there for the same reason—to meet new people. Smile, be confident, and step in with an open mind.
- Quality Conversations > Quantity of Contacts
Don’t feel like you need to talk to everyone. Focus on having a few meaningful conversations rather than trying to meet as many people as possible. A single strong connection can be more valuable than collecting a bunch of business cards.
- Small Talk Is a Good Starting Point
There’s nothing wrong with starting a conversation with small talk. It’s how most people warm up to each other. Comment on the event, the food, or something happening in the news. Small talk is an easy way to break the ice before diving into deeper topics.
- Ask Questions That Go Beyond “What Do You Do?”
Instead of asking the standard “What do you do?”, try asking questions that spark a more interesting conversation. For example, “What’s the most exciting project you’re working on?” or “What’s a challenge you’re facing in your industry?” are great conversation starters. Use a product like copper metal business cards to really make an impression.
- Approach Someone Who Looks a Little Lost
If you’re unsure who to talk to, look for someone standing alone. They’re probably feeling just as nervous as you, and they’ll appreciate you starting the conversation. It’s a low-pressure way to make a connection.
How to Follow Up Without Being Annoying
- Make Your Follow-Up Personal
After the event, send a personalized follow-up message. Reference something specific you talked about, rather than just saying, “It was nice to meet you.” This shows that you were engaged and will help keep the conversation going.
- Connect on LinkedIn (And Add a Note)
When you send a LinkedIn request, always include a personal message. Something as simple as, “It was great meeting you at the event. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic]” makes you more memorable and helps deepen the connection