Let’s be real: Networking sounds about as fun as sitting through a tax audit. The mere thought of walking into a room full of strangers and trying to strike up conversations probably makes your palms sweat. Trust me, you’re not alone.
The truth is, everyone feels awkward when it comes to networking—even the people who seem like naturals at it. But here’s the good news: Networking doesn’t have to be the nerve-wracking experience we make it out to be. In fact, when you look at it as simply creating genuine connections, it starts to feel a lot more manageable.
So, let’s dive into why networking matters and—more importantly—how you can make it less awkward and more enjoyable.
Why Networking Still Matters (Even in 2024)
First off, let’s clear something up: Networking isn’t about collecting as many business cards as possible or racking up LinkedIn connections. It’s about building relationships that can open doors, provide advice, or lead to new opportunities down the road.
The key to effective networking is realizing that it’s a two-way street. It’s not just about what you can get, but what you can offer. The best connections come from helping each other out, whether that’s offering advice, sharing resources, or making introductions.
So, how do you make this all less terrifying and more, dare we say, enjoyable? We’ve got you covered with some practical tips.
Before You Even Walk In: 4 Tips to Get Ready for Networking
- Keep Your Elevator Pitch Simple and Honest
We’ve all heard about the importance of an elevator pitch—a brief, polished summary of who you are and what you do. But let’s be real, nobody wants to hear a rehearsed monologue. Keep your introduction short, simple, and, most importantly, authentic.
Say something like, “I help small businesses create engaging social media strategies,” instead of rattling off your entire résumé. Be prepared to answer two questions:
- What do you do?
- Why does it matter?
And then stop. People appreciate directness and simplicity.
- Over-Prepare on the Business Cards
Nothing kills the vibe faster than scrambling to jot down your info on a napkin. Come loaded with more business cards than you think you’ll need—better to have extra than to run out. If you want to really stand out, try something unique like metal business cards. They’re a conversation starter in themselves!
- Tag Team It
If the thought of walking into a room alone is paralyzing, bring a buddy. Having someone familiar with you can ease the nerves and make it feel less like a high-stakes game. You can introduce each other and even tackle the room as a duo—making the whole process way less stressful.
- Have a Loose Plan (but Stay Flexible)
It helps to go in with a few goals, but don’t overwhelm yourself. Maybe you want to talk to three new people or reconnect with a former colleague. Having some structure can keep you focused, but keep it loose. Don’t stress about talking to everyone. Focus on making meaningful connections rather than scattering business cards like confetti.
Navigating the Room: 6 Tips to Make Networking Less Awkward
- Give Yourself a Pep Talk
Before walking into the event, take a moment to mentally prepare. Give yourself a quick reminder: You’re here to learn, meet interesting people, and grow. You’re not expected to know everything or impress everyone. Just be yourself—sounds cheesy, but it works.
- Focus on Quality Over Quantity
You don’t have to talk to everyone in the room. In fact, it’s better to focus on a handful of quality conversations rather than shaking hands with 50 people. One meaningful conversation beats a dozen forgettable ones. The goal? Walk away having connected with a few interesting people, not just a bunch of faceless names.
- Small Talk Isn’t the Enemy
People love to hate on small talk, but it’s actually a great way to break the ice. Don’t feel like you need to jump straight into deep conversations. Chat about the event, the snacks, or even the weather. The point isn’t the subject—it’s about warming up to each other and finding some common ground.
- Ask Questions That Make People Think
When you’re ready to move past small talk, ask questions that spark a more interesting conversation. Instead of the boring, “So, what do you do?” try something like, “What’s a project you’re really excited about right now?” You’ll learn more, and it opens up the door for a real, engaging discussion.
- Treat Networking Like Any Other Conversation
Don’t overthink it. Networking is just a conversation—no need to treat it like some sort of corporate interview. Forget about what you want to get from the person, and instead focus on having a relaxed, normal chat. People can sense when you’re pushing an agenda, so don’t. Just be real.
- Find the Wallflowers
If approaching a big group feels intimidating, look for someone standing off to the side—they’re probably feeling just as awkward as you are. Start with a friendly smile and introduce yourself. They’ll likely appreciate the initiative, and you’ll both feel more comfortable.
After the Event: 4 Tips to Stay Connected Without Being Pushy
- Make Time for the Follow-Up
You survived the event and made a few connections—awesome! But don’t stop there. The real magic happens in the follow-up. If you’re serious about building relationships, you need to invest time in keeping those connections alive.
- Personalize Your LinkedIn Connection
Sending a LinkedIn request is a good first step, but skip the boring, generic messages. Instead, mention something specific from your conversation. Something like, “It was great talking about your new product launch. Would love to stay in touch!” makes you more memorable and personable.
- Ask a Question to Keep the Conversation Going
When following up, give the other person something to respond to. Don’t just say, “It was great meeting you.” Instead, ask an open-ended question like, “You mentioned you’re working on a new project—how’s that going?” This keeps the conversation alive and shows you’re genuinely interested.
- Consistency Is Key (Without Being Annoying)
Networking is about building relationships over time, not just a one-off connection. Set a reminder to check in with your new contacts periodically, whether it’s sharing an interesting article or inviting them to grab coffee. The goal is to nurture the relationship without overwhelming them with constant messages.
Networking Doesn’t Have to Be a Nightmare
At its core, networking is just about making connections with other people. It doesn’t have to be this daunting, pressure-filled experience. With these tips, you can approach networking with confidence, build meaningful relationships, and maybe even have a little fun. Hand out a Metal Kard.
So, the next time you’re gearing up for a networking event, remember: Breathe, be yourself, and enjoy the process. And don’t forget those metal business cards—you’ll be the most memorable person in the room!