Most professionals know that face-to-face networking is essential and invaluable.   However, how many times have you attended a networking event and found yourself in the same spot talking to one person all night, or perhaps you tried to talk to everyone and didn’t really connect with any? 

You most likely will not, nor should you, aim to speak with everyone in the room.  It is important to identify your purpose for attending before you walk into the event.  For example: are you there to reach new prospects, align yourself with new partners or suppliers, look for a new employer or candidates or simply to get your name out around town?

Here are a few tips on how to best work the room at a business networking event.

·        When you first arrive – scan the room quickly to assess who is there.  Have your strategic plan in mind of who you like to meet, but don’t close yourself off from meeting new contacts that may not directly ‘fit’ your plan – you never know who is connected to whom.

·        If there are name tags, make sure you place it on the right side.  People automatically look up the extended arm you use when shaking their hand; this directs their eyes to your name tag on your right side.  

·        In case you are nervous: Remember that everyone else is feeling self-conscious in some way and most likely more worried about what others are thinking about them versus directing their attention on you.  

·        Have before you arrive your “30-second elevator pitch” providing what services you offer or problems you can help solve.  Then rehearse, rehearse, rehearse.  It will help you sound natural and confident. 

·        Never consume the conversation and boast about your credentials or qualifications.  Your goal should be to understand what the other’s needs could be and to collect information about them. This will help you quickly assess if they may have a need for what you provide.  

·        No matter who you speak with, look directly into their eyes and don’t allow your eyes to wonder looking around while they are speaking.  People always remember and appreciate those who give them that respect and attention – and again, you never know who knows whom and they may not speak highly of you to someone else that could be your target contact. 

·        Even if you find yourself connecting with someone at the event, reaffirm that connection with them and then keep moving.  Either exchange contact info and follow up later, or make a mental note to come back to them before you leave after you connected with others in the room. 

There are a few additional factors you should also address when attending a networking event…your grooming, body language and dress. 

No matter how well you rehearse your pitch or how amazing your service or product may be; you could unknowingly be your own deal-breaker for potential new contacts.

If you present yourself unpolished and are sloppy in your appearance, if you tend to eat and speak at the same time, if you are a poor listener (but think you are a great one!) and continuously interrupt another to share what/who you may know and appear too boastful, or if you display poor posture and are slouching leaning against a wall while meeting people.  All of the above examples are unfortunately recent real-life observations at a networking event and would not reflect well on you.

So, remember the above bullet points, but also -- Stand tall, be mindful and engaged with whomever you are speaking with, be conscious of foods that may get stuck in your teeth and avoid them, and present yourself as the successful professional that you are and want to be remembered.