How to Get More Out of Networking Events
Tips for Attending a Networking Event
With a little planning, networking can be less painful, even beneficial, for you as a professional.
- Come early.
- Set a goal of how many meaningful conversations you want to have.
- Study the guestlist ahead of time.
Here are some guidelines with resources if you want to go deeper. You can also listen to a podcasts (or podcast segment) for some more tips.
1. Set Clear Goals: Know why you’re attending — e.g., meet 3 new contacts in your industry or reconnect with a previous colleague.
Source: Harvard Business Review – How to Network at a Conference
2. Perfect Your Introduction (and Practice It): Have a 30-second personal intro ready — who you are, what you do, and why you’re there.
Source: Forbes Coaches Council – How To Build And Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
3. Research Attendees or Speakers in Advance: Knowing who’s going to be there helps you prioritize conversations and makes you feel more prepared.
Source: Inc. Magazine – 10 Smart Tips for Networking Success
4. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Start with: “What brought you here today?” or “What’s a recent project you’ve been excited about?”
Source: Time Magazine – 11 Fool proof Ways to Start a Conversation
5. Focus on Listening, Not Just Talking: Let others talk more — people appreciate being heard and remember good listeners.
Source: Dale Carnegie – How to Win Friends and Influence People
6. Connect on LinkedIn (With a Message) Right After: Mention the event in your connection note to help them remember who you are.
Source: Dux Soup – How to Write a Compelling LinkedIn Connection Request
7. Take Notes Immediately After Conversations: Jot down names, topics discussed, or personal details — useful for follow-ups and future events.
Source: Fast Company – How to Network Like You Actually Know What You’re Doing
8. Follow Up Within 24–48 Hours: Send a quick thank you or LinkedIn message to continue the conversation or share a helpful resource.
Source: Harvard Business Review – How to Network at a Conference
Podcasts:
1. Networking for People Who Hate Networking: In this episode of his podcast WorkLife, Adam Grant discusses how to build meaningful professional connections without the awkwardness often associated with networking. He emphasizes the importance of generosity and authenticity over transactional interactions. Here is a great LinkedIn piece from him as well: To Build a Great Network, You Don’t Have to be a Great Networker.
2. Networking Event Tips (9:33): In this episode of their podcast Happier in Hollywood, showrunners and writers, Sarah Fain and Liz Craft, do a deep dive on looking at the guest list beforehand, getting there early, and trying to connect with deeper conversations.
