By Kathryn Seehusen, Colorado Home Realty
Networking events can be intimidating, but they can also be a lot of fun if you approach them with a playful and open, confident mindset. Here are some tips on how to navigate these events with ease while still having a good time.
- Don’t be afraid to break the ice with a little humor. A well-timed joke or pun can instantly put people at ease and make you more approachable. Just make sure your humor is appropriate for the setting – you don’t want to offend anyone or come across as unprofessional.
- Be a good listener. Networking events are all about building relationships, so it’s important to show genuine interest in the people you’re talking to. Ask open-ended questions and really listen to their responses. This will help you build rapport and make a lasting impression. Listen for things they may need in their business or connections you can help them make.
- Don’t be a wallflower. It’s easy to feel like a small fish in a big pond at networking events, but remember that everyone is there for the same reason – to make connections. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to people and strike up conversations. You never know where it might lead! Attending events with a friend or colleague can make breaking the ice with new people a bit more comfortable. Or ask the event organizer to introduce you to specific professionals that you are trying to connect with.
- Follow up in a playful way. After the event, follow up with the people you met to thank them for their time and continue the conversation. You can even add a playful touch – for example, sending a funny meme or gif related to something you talked about at the event. This will help you stand out and show that you’re not just another business card in their pile. Invite them to another event, refer their services to friends if they have earned your trust or include them in your next marketing campaign and see where the relationship goes!
Networking events don’t have to be stuffy or boring. By approaching them with a playful mindset, you can make valuable connections while having a good time. So go out there and network. Your business will thank you!
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