Sponsored Post : How To Get The Most Out Of Networking Events

Networking is a crucial part of selling your skills and expertise but how do you get yourself noticed instead of feeling like a needle in a haystack. Lists of guests are usually available online so you have time to work out who will be there. This is crucial as you do not want to walk in trying to wing it. Everyone else will have prepared and you won’t stand a chance if you let opportunities slip.

So what do you do?
Find out who you want to talk to and for how long, research names and blogs who could you potentially benefit speaking to. If it is possible make contact in advance and introduce yourself, hint that you would like to speak to him/her at the event. It may not work out as you wish because people may have their own arrangements but make an effort still.

What to expect?
Most people will be nervous but you are all in the same boat and don’t shy away if someone comes to talk to you. Label yourself clearly as one thing which is common at networking events is that you people will try and work out who you are.

Networking
Are you actually networking, building contacts, seeking out opportunities? People often forget to ask for contact details so have business cards at hand. It will make you look professional as first impressions count. Share ideas and your thoughts but this isn’t an opportunity to complain how difficult things are, so alternatively be constructive. If someone helps you out, don’t dismiss them but personalise a thank you card which could lead to other opportunities. It’s not just about landing the perfect job opportunity but building your professional profile too. If you don’t feel like you get anything out of the opportunity consider sending a thank you card to the organisers of the event and perhaps ask if you could help organise the next one.

Avoid queues....they may be the most popular person in the room, consider talking to other people too, some who are in the queue.

Social media
As we live in the digital era, most will have an online presence and share the likes of everything. But as recruiters and professionals are using this to head hunt and check profiles, keep yours clean. If you think social media accounts don’t represent the best version of you then update your privacy settings and make new accounts. LinkedIn is the most popular professional social media account so use it to connect and join groups where you can have discussions.

Keep in regular contact with people ask for opportunities and help others too as you never know who could help you in the future.