DO’s and DON’Ts for Networking at Conferences, Trade Shows, and Events
Yes, walking onto a packed trade show floor or into a bustling networking mixer can trigger your fight or flight response.
Networking favors the brave. Why do we still have these events when we could do it all virtually? Because shaking someone's hand makes a difference. So let's get out there. Be courageous!
EVENT NETWORKING DO's:
✅ DO visualize a good outcome - Plan ahead on who you would like to meet, what conversations you would like to have, and what a good outcome would be for yourself. Having a goal of connecting with 5 new people and messaging them on LinkedIn is achievable. If you roll up without a plan, you’re likely not to achieve much.
✅ DO ask questions - Don’t get sucked into going on and on about what you do. Stay curious about other people and companies.
✅ DO initiate conversation - Be brave. Walk up to people with a smile. I’ve found that catapulting myself into groups of people with good posture, a smile, and “Hi guys, what are we talking about?” can work wonders.
✅ DO take selfies and pictures - Set a reminder on your phone to take a panorama, some videos, and a few selfies. If you're at a trade show, snap a picture of a competitor's booth to send to one of your clients.
EVENT NETWORKING DON’Ts
🚫 DON’T fake expertise or nod along when someone starts talking about Boolean logic if you don’t understand them. It is ok to ask stupid questions!
🚫 DON’T sneaky swipe the swag - Refrain just barreling past a booth and casually grabbing the swag without making eye contact. I know they have a cool pair of headphones, but as Dora the Explorer once said, “Swiper No Swiping!”
🚫 DON’T sell on the spot - Try to connect authentically and get out your phone and schedule a call with them, then and there. You can deep dive on your service later.
🚫DON’T stay all business all the time - Ask them about their day, where they are from. Crack a joke about the ugly carpet. You’re here to connect with a human being, not a pile of money.
Networking is an act that builds courage. The more you do it, the better you get. Go in with a curious mind, excited to hear about other people.
My favorite questions to ask:
"How did you get started with this? What got you started with X Company?"
"Are there any other events you're going to that you're excited about?"
"How are you telling your story right now?"
I know you can do this. Get your LinkedIn QR code out, wear a good outfit that makes you feel confident. Try to have fun.
-Cameron
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
About the Author:
Cameron Kit is a filmmaker and founder of YOYOS, a documentary storytelling company. She is one of those people who actually enjoys networking. If you want to pick her brain, you can chat with her by booking time on her calendly here.
