Actual article date: Feb 10, 2014

If you’re like me, then the main reason that you attend events is obvious, to network. Did you know that 95% of attendees go to events for the purpose of networking? Since we all want to find business opportunities within the little time we have at events, I’ve decided to share with you some of the most memorable moments that I’ve had during my interactions with other attendees. I will also be sharing with you some of the most glaring mistakes that I’ve made at events.

• Always be ready to network — Time set aside for refreshments are partially meant to keep you “refreshed”; mainly, they are an excuse for you to network! Unless you’re attending a special 5-course-networking-sit-down-dinner, never pig out at the buffet spread. It always amuses me to see people juggling plates of food with their mouths full while trying to squeeze in a handshake. I wouldn’t even dare to offer a handshake, or speak to him for fear of him choking on his food. He just looks too unapproachable. Sure, go ahead and eat those yummy puffs and cakes during the short break. But make sure you do that quickly, or at least ensure you have an available hand to shake hands and a mouth to articulate your name properly without spitting out your food.

• Make a powerful first impression — First impression always counts! It is scientifically proven that people tend to remember those who make a lasting first impression on them. This is what sets you apart from the crowds at any event. Don’t get me wrong, I do not mean for you to showcase a formal, hour-long, business pitch to every single person you meet at the event. Instead, summarise key value propositions of your product or service within 30 seconds. Also, make sure you give the other party the time to speak and listen to what he says. Most importantly, be sincere. A genuine interest in another person goes a long way.

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• Learn to read body language — No, I’m not talking about watching out for seductive moves played by the other party. What I mean is simply paying attention to subtle hints made by the person you’re talking to. If he keeps looking at his watch throughout the conversation or gets distracted by every single person who passes by, it is obvious that he isn’t interested in what you have to offer. Moving on to another party would certainly shorten the suffering that he is going through and well as yours. Move on!

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• Bring plenty of business cards — “I forgot to bring my business cards” and “I didn’t bring enough business cards” are the most overused phrases we have heard while attending business events. If one can suit up specially for the occasion, remembering to bring a stack of business cards should also be second nature. After all, the most basic and important habit for anyone at any event is to bring business cards! You only have a few minutes to make a lasting impression with the other party. A little lapse in memory could cost you a potential deal struck.

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• Don’t be shy! — Everyone is in the same boat, everyone is there to network. The initial inertia of speaking to strangers might seem daunting, but this is one area where practice makes perfect. A good introduction to use at events would be: “Hi my name is (insert name) and I’m in the business of (industry). Nice to meet you here, what do you do?” Move around and remember to talk!

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• Exercise discipline on drinks — We admit that it is always tempting to gulp down as many drinks as possible, especially when it’s all free of charge! But know your limit before things start to get ugly. Sure, you might have a high tolerance for all things alcohol. Just make sure that you know who you have met at the meeting when you wake up the next morning.

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• Make full use of the available networking tools — If you have already spent loads of money on a ticket to a business event, it is important to maximise any networking opportunity you have. Besides the pointers which I mentioned above, the use of technology can also be adopted to streamline how networking is done. Event organisers are beginning to see the need of having a networking solution available at events; and delegates are getting very smart at using various methods to find relevant people to talk to. It doesn’t hurt to ask whether there’s an existing networking solution in place at the next event you attend. If there isn’t, do introduce us!

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