Networking can seem so daunting at first, especially when you don’t know where to start. So, we’ve put together a step-by-step framework to help you ace your next networking event!
5 Steps for Acing Your Next Networking Event
Step 1: Identify Goals and Conduct Background Research
It’s always good to go into a networking event having some knowledge about the industry, company, or professional. With a little bit of information, you'll be able to identify what you want to learn from each session and be specific in your questions. That way you’re able to craft tailored questions that allow you to gain the most from the event.
For example, you can first take a look at industry news relevant to the event, or learn more about the current opportunities offered by the companies. Another great way to conduct research is to look into the event representatives' backgrounds (if you have prior knowledge of who will be present at the event). This way you can find common interests which will help when you talk to them.
Having prepared tailored questions also allows you to avoid running into awkward silences, but we’ll get to that later.
Step 2: Introduction, Sharing Your Background, and Small Talk
First impressions can make a big impact! Start with a warm introduction about yourself, giving context as to what you liked about the session, who you are and your interests. It’s always good for the people you are networking with to know more about you - this way they can help you better. Giving context as to why you are asking a question before doing so also helps the flow of your conversation.
Examples of sharing something you liked about the session could be about their panel responses or something you found interesting about them, like their career journey. You can also share more about yourself by saying things like, “I've been really interested in this role because of a previous xxx experience, so I wanted to ask...”, or even sharing common interests that you guys have.
Don’t forget to stay professional while being personable. You don’t need to dive right into the questions you have for them first, have a bit of small talk and let the conversation flow.
Step 3: Go With the Flow (While Being Professional)
As the step says, go with the flow. If your conversation is headed in a certain direction, keep it going as it’s probably an area of interest for the rep. The conversation also does not need to be about school or work. However, if you ever feel stuck, refer to the questions you prepared in step 1 to avoid awkward silences. Overall, try to be natural and yourself as you talk to people.
Step 4: Appropriate close off
Be aware of when the conversation may be coming to an end. Do not keep talking just for the sake of it. Instead, when the conversation does come to an end, stay professional by thanking them for their time. Last impressions do matter. When you have thanked them for their time, you can politely ask for their contact information (usually Linkedin, or maybe their email).
Step 5: Follow Up
Now that you have had a successful conversation and gotten their contact information, it’s time to stay in touch! This could be done through sending a thank you message about what you enjoyed, keeping them updated with what you are doing, or even requesting for a coffee chat. If you do get a coffee chat, make sure to follow the same etiquette and send a thank you message afterwards!
RCIG’s Best Networking Tips
Last but not least, here are some of RCIG’s best tips for acing your next networking night!
Be yourself!
Always try to find people who have things in common with you - the more the better!
Bring a conversation starter with you, like an interesting book!
Be professional but keep it conversational. Specific questions about their firm, role, or recruitment opportunities are best kept for your follow-up coffee chat.
Practice, practice, and practice! You’ll improve your networking skills by doing :)
Networking does not have to be daunting. By preparing and practicing lots, you will become better at it. All the best with your next networking event! (And don’t forget about RCIG’s very own Networking Night!)
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