Silence your phone.

Set a goal to meet 10 new people for a 90 minute to 2 hour networking event.

Name badge goes on the right and is easy to read.

Shake hands, clearly state your first and last name.

Networking 101

Getting in to a conversation:

Direct approach: Do you mind if I join you? This looks like an interesting group…

Fade in approach: Stand at the edge of a group and enter

the conversation when there is a pause. Make a comment--on the location, the

food, the music. Ask how they are connected to the

event.

Networking 101

Be interested and interesting. Have direct eye contact and body language that says, the person you are addressing  is the most interesting person here.

Talk about general interest topics and avoid talking about politics, religion and health.

Exchange business cards and be prepared to follow up after the event.

Networking 101

Getting out of a conversation:

Direct approach: It was nice to have met you I will be sure to send you the link we

discussed.

Fade out approach: If the group has become engaged in

conversation without you, you can subtly exit

Switch—someone joins, you leave. Refresh—get more food or drink. It’s Your Turn—Bring someone in and exit.

Networking 101