Tips for Navigating Intimate Networking Events

Tips for Navigating Intimate Networking EventsTips for Navigating Intimate Networking EventsWhen it comes to networking events, bigger isnt always better. In fact, smaller networking events can be even more beneficial for job seekers than ones that pack in a big crowd.If you need help navigating intimate networking events, these six dos and donts might just do the trick.Heres how to navigate intimate networking eventsDo your research. Big networking events can be a veritable whos who in your industry. That said, it can be harder to create a connection with those individuals because so many other attendees probably have the same idea.But with a smaller guest and speaker list, its easier to conduct some research ahead of time on who will be there. Once you have some information on their backgrounds, you can use it as an ice breaker.Dont be fake. Although some people might equate networking with schmoozing, you want to be as real as possible at a networking event. Of course, you should dress professionally, but also wear clothes that reflect your true style.Remember, if you find three-piece suits loathsome, that stiffness could come across in your conversation. Dont say that youre a senior-level manager when youre really a mid-level employee. Be honest, and youre bound to make a better impression.Do open up the discussion. Although youre at a networking event to network, that doesnt have to be the sole topic of conversation. Breathe fresh life into boring So what do you do? conversations by having other networking conversations starters at the ready, like being a working parent, your experience or desire to work flexibly, and other topics that andeutung on work, but also add a personal touch to the discussion.Dont breeze through conversations. Larger networking events can be akin to speed dating you want to make contact with as many people as possible but in the shortest time possible.Not so with more intimate networking events. Dont be so quick to write off a pot ential contact or cut a convo short. Spend some time talking with people, both in your industry as well as other fields. You never know where a genuine connection might come from and where it can lead to.Do pay it forward. Sure, youre at a networking event to make connections, but so are all the other job seekers there, too. Instead of focusing on your wants and needs, try offering something to the other people who are there.For example, after talking with a fellow job hunter, you might realize that your old boss would be the perfect contact for him to have. So sport some good old-fashioned good will and reach out to your former boss to let him know about this stellar job seeker who might be good for him to meet with. Paying it forward for someone else can pay off for you down the road.Dont forget to follow up. Its easy to get excited and promise to stay in touch with someone when theyre right in front of you. But after days or even a week or two has passed, you might forget about s ome of the people you met at the networking event. Thats why you need to push yourself to follow up with the contacts you made.You can send an email that relates to something you spoke about during the event, or some breaking industry news that you know the person would appreciate. This can help put you at the forefront of the persons mind- and hopefully lead to a referral or even a job interview.Interested in more advice to make the most of networking events? Check out our networking tips category