When attending a networking event, you should be aware of some behaviors that people will appreciate and some that will label you as someone to avoid. The list below is by no means exhaustive, but embracing the spirit of these guidelines may enhance your networking experience.
#1. This really is rule number one. Introduce yourself to the host as soon as possible.. at least within the first few minutes of arriving. Even if you know the host or hostess personally, and have attended dozens of similar events, make an effort to get to your host or hostess within the first few minutes to say thank you. Yes, say "thank you for inviting me to this event." This is an easy thing to do, but an all-too-often neglected duty.
# 2. If you are really there to network, make it a personal mission to introduce yourself to the person standing or sitting alone. Not everyone at a networking event is an extrovert or graced with the gift of socialization. You may not be graced as such either, but making the effort to say hello is the single most important thing you can do, and it is always appreciated.
#3. THE BIG RULE - Do not dominate large amounts of one person's time. The purpose of a networking event is to allow as many people as possible to meet as many people as possible. I can't tell you how many events I've attended where someone ... and normally more than one someone, simply camps out with one other person. Guys are particularly guilty of this ... particularly with attractive women. Now, I'm a guy so I know the temptation is to hang on to that fascinating woman that you just met, but at a networking event, you have to let go. Guess what?... She probably doesn't find you so fascinating. So guys, by all means, get her business card, secure her cell number and a best time to call, but then get out of the way.
Rule of thumb: After 5 minutes of conversation, you should be finding a way to graciously say, "It is so nice to meet you. I hope we get another chance to chat."
Ladies, you don't get off the hook here. Much the same goes for you, and I'm sorry to say, even more so. Yes, it's nice to find a safe man with whom to attach yourself for the evening, but if he's there to network, he needs the opportunity to leave you. As fascinating, as interesting, and as captivating that you may be, there are other people in the room he may want to meet. Here's a thought; Maybe there are others in the room who want to meet him. Now, here's the "more so" that I mentioned a couple of lines ago. It is very safe and comfortable to hang on to that girlfriend you met or arrived with, but if you are really at the event to network, you need to insist on the opportunity to engage others.
#4. It doesn't matter what gender you are - if you find yourself in a situation where you are going to sit at an already occupied table, it is your obligation to introduce yourself to those already seated. That is unless there is someone making the introductions for you. Ladies - If there are men already sitting at the table where you wish to be seated, you are obliged to introduce yourself to them... not the other way around. Men - If there are women sitting at the table, you are obliged to introduce yourself to them. It is most rude to ignore those already seated at a table that you want to occupy.
#5. ANOTHER BIG RULE - Leave your cell phone in your pocket or purse. Texting communicates to those around you that you are not really there to network. If you find it important to talk or text someone via the cell phone, leave the room.
#6. Avoid handing out cards for the sake of handing out cards. Here's a dirty little secret: No one wants your card, until they ask for it.
#7. Avoid conversations that involve politics and/or religion. Most networking events are professional in nature and engaging in either of these topics may be the end of the event for you. I speak from experience. Don't go there!
#8. Don't sit very long. Sitting in one place all night can be comfortable, but it definitely communicates a message you may not want. That message is:: "I'm not really here to network, so don't even bother trying to talk to me." The host or hostess is the only person who should be found in the same place for most of the event.
#9. Introduce people that you've met to other people. This is the way it's really suppose to work at a networking event.
#10. Say good night to your host or hostess, and thank them again for inviting you. It's the one thing you can do to help ensure you're invited to the next event.
These guidelines are not set in stone, or to my knowledge even published somewhere else, but I do hope my suggestions will help make your future networking events more enjoyable.
Darko Festin
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