How Do You Identify Who You Talk to at Business Networking Events?

First published: January 14, 2022 @ 6:00 pm

In business networking, the word “networking” is used to describe the process of developing relationships with people you don’t know.

People who share common interests can meet at networking events, and develop lasting relationships that lead to business opportunities.

However, in this article we will not be talking about the benefits of business networking, but rather how to identify who to talk to at business networking events.

In other words, when someone comes up to you and starts a conversation with you at a business networking event, what is your first instinct?

Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Or do you immediately wonder if they are looking for a job or trying to sell something?

The reality is that at business networking events you are likely to meet some people that you would like to build a relationship with.

But how do you identify who to talk to?

This article will help you figure out how to find the right person for your networking.

Know What Events to Attend

The first thing you need to do is determine which events are the best for your company. If you are a startup, then you should attend business networking events that match your needs.

In this age, there are lots of different platforms for social events that are ripe for networking opportunities.

These can include large-scale in-person industry events, intimate events, virtual networking events, and many more.

It is also a good idea to go to some industry specific events that might be more relevant to your business. This way, you can ensure that you will meet a lot of like-minded people.

Come Prepared

Before you attend the event, be it in-person or something online like virtual conferences, make sure you come prepared.

This includes knowing what you’re gonna say, the kind of people you’re looking for, and your business goals or what you want out of the networking.

Whether you’re trying to sell something, entice people to your business, or get hired at someone else’s business, have an elevator pitch planned.

You don’t know how many time you will have to convince the people you’re networking with!

Make sure to dress nicely, so people take you seriously. And most importantly, do not forget to bring your business cards!

In today’s age, some people might forgo business cards and choose to just link up with each other on LinkedIn, but it’s still good to have in hand. Having a card ensures that the people you network with have so way of reaching out to you after the event. Photo by Thirdman on Pexels

Observe Everyone Carefully

If you know who is attending the event, then look at what the attendees are wearing and their attire will give you a good indication of their profession and their interest in your company.

For example, if they have a suit on and they seem interested in what you have to say, then they are probably an attorney or someone working in the legal field.

A person wearing casual clothes probably works in sales or marketing. If they are wearing jeans and a t-shirt, it means that they work in IT or finance.

You can use this information as an indicator of how important it is for them to meet with you personally.

This will ensure that none of your conversations will be a waste of time, and increase the chances of your networking ending with you building meaningful relationships.

Have the Right Attitude

Make sure to brush up on your social skills and public speaking skills. Have some conversation starters at the ready, so you never leave an awkward moment hanging and have some clue as to how you can get a casual conversation going.

You want to make sure that you come across as enthusiastic about meeting people who could be valuable partners for your company and not just looking for free drinks and food from other attendees at the event.

It is important that you have an interest in what they do and how they got started. This will make it easier for them to share information about their company with you and get your attention.

You want this person as a partner, so do not be afraid of asking questions about what they do, where they work, or why they started their business in the first place.

Be prepared with some follow-up questions that you can ask the person that you are interested in meeting.

Finally, if you end the conversation interested in linking up further, don’t forget to exchange business cards or some method of reaching out. Additionally, once the event has ended, don’t take too long before reaching out with a follow-up email.

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