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Written by Michael Goldberg

As opposed to the wrong people.

Meeting people at a business networking event that you like makes networking much more fun!

Common interests, common goals, common sense.

If you take the right approach, you can make meaningful connections that are beneficial to your business and personal goals.

Here are some Knock Out strategies!

Prepare Ahead of Time
Don’t wing it! If the event has a list of attendees or speakers, look them up in advance. Identify people whose work or position aligns with your goals. And, uh, set clear goals!

Be Strategic with Your Time
Don’t just stick with people you already know. Force yourself to meet new people. Attend events or sessions where you’re likely to meet people who align with your professional or personal interests.

Attend Events Referred by Prospects, Clients, Friends
Birds of a feather! If those you like make a recommendation about where to go, what to say, and with whom, take the bait. In fact, ask them!

Make a Strong First Impression

• Elevator Pitch: Highlight your profession, expertise, target market, “ask”.
• Confident Body Language: Stand tall, make eye contact, and smile. 😉
• Ask Questions: About their work, challenges, interests. Be curious!
• Be Collaborative: Aim to create a reciprocal exchange. A “we” thing!
• Use the Power of Small Groups: Jump in with a comment or question.

Leverage the Organizers
I mentioned this in my post last week. Event organizers often know who the key players are. If you have specific people in mind, don’t hesitate to ask the organizers for introductions or advice on who to meet.

Follow Up
The FU! Collect business cards, e-cards, or LinkedIn profiles, and follow up the next day with a personalized message referencing your conversation. Only FU if there is a reason! Establish that reason with them when you’re still F2F at the event! Remember, think win-win!

Stay in Touch
If it makes sense. Keep the conversation going after the event, maybe through a Zoom, coffee, e-coffee (just made that up) or specific “next step”. Networkers often don’t put enough value on staying in touch with those they already know. It may seem easier to meet the next new contact. You know, like the next new shiny object.

How do you meet more of the right people at events?