So, you’ve RSVP’d for that OCEAN networking event—your outfit is planned, business cards are ready, and your mindset is all about making connections. But now you’re wondering: What do I actually do once I get there?
Networking events can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t have a clear game plan. But here’s the good news: networking doesn’t have to be awkward, forced, or overwhelming. In fact, it can be one of the most valuable tools you have for building relationships, growing your business, and expanding your career. The key is knowing what to do once you walk through those doors.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to navigate a networking event, from the moment you arrive to when you’re following up afterward. Let’s turn that event into an opportunity for building meaningful connections that last.
1. Arrive at the networking event with Purpose
Before you even step foot in the venue, have a clear purpose for why you’re attending the event. Are you looking to meet potential clients? Connect with industry peers? Find a mentor or collaborators? Having a clear goal will help you focus your efforts and give you a sense of direction throughout the event.
And remember, networking isn’t about collecting as many business cards as possible; it’s about building relationships. So, walk in with the mindset of quality over quantity.
2. Start with Confidence and a Smile
First impressions matter—a lot. When you first walk in, take a moment to check your body language. Stand tall, make eye contact, and offer a warm smile to those you encounter. Confidence is contagious, and people are naturally drawn to those who exude it.
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself first. Most people at networking events are there for the same reason as you—to make connections—so they’re often relieved when someone takes the initiative to start a conversation. A simple, “Hi, I’m [Your Name], it’s great to meet you. What brings you here?” is all it takes to break the ice.
3. Engage in Active Listening
Once you’ve started a conversation, be an active listener. Networking is about relationship building, and the fastest way to build rapport is to show genuine interest in the other person. Ask open-ended questions that invite them to talk about themselves and their work.
Here’s a tip: instead of the typical “What do you do?” try asking something like, “What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?” This opens the door to a more engaging conversation and sets a positive, forward-thinking tone.
While they’re speaking, give verbal cues like nodding and brief affirmations (“That sounds amazing!” or “Tell me more about that”). People remember how you make them feel, and by being a good listener, you leave a lasting impression.
4. Know How to Introduce Yourself
We’ve all heard the term “elevator pitch,” but don’t let that intimidate you. Your introduction doesn’t have to sound rehearsed or robotic. When at a networking event and someone asks you what you do, keep it conversational. Here’s a formula that works:
- Who you are: “I’m [Your Name]…”
- What you do: “…and I help businesses [solve a problem or achieve a goal].”
- Why it matters: “I’m really passionate about [the value you bring] because [the impact it has].”
For example, instead of saying, “I run a marketing agency,” you could say, “I help small businesses grow their online presence so they can reach more customers and increase sales. I love seeing how the right strategy can completely transform a company’s growth.”
This makes you memorable and opens up the conversation for more meaningful exchanges.
5. Move with Intention
A networking event often means moving from conversation to conversation. But how do you gracefully exit a discussion without feeling awkward? Here’s a tip: Once you’ve had a quality interaction, thank the person for their time and suggest you reconnect later. You could say something like, “It’s been great chatting with you, I’d love to continue this conversation another time. I’m going to mingle a bit more, but let’s exchange cards and follow up.”
This lets you move on without feeling like you’re cutting the conversation short while leaving the door open for future interactions.
6. Bring Value to the Conversation
Networking isn’t just about what you can get—it’s about what you can give. Offer value wherever you can. If you know of a resource, book, or contact that could help the person you’re speaking with, mention it. For example, if someone is struggling with a challenge that you have experience with, offer advice or suggest a solution.
Even better, make connections for others. If you know someone in your network who could benefit from connecting with the person you’re talking to, offer to introduce them. Networking karma is real, and the more you help others, the more opportunities will naturally come your way.
7. Follow Up (This is Non-Negotiable)
The real work happens after the event. If you don’t follow up with the connections you’ve made, you’re missing out on the most valuable part of networking. Within 24 to 48 hours after the event, send a personalized follow-up email or LinkedIn message to the people you connected with.
A simple message can go like this:
“Hi [Their Name],
It was great meeting you at the OCEAN networking event! I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic], and I’d love to stay connected. Let me know if you’re open to grabbing coffee or hopping on a call sometime to continue the conversation.”
This shows you’re serious about building a relationship and not just collecting contacts.
8. Practice Makes Perfect
Like anything else, networking is a skill that improves with practice. The more events you attend and the more conversations you initiate, the easier and more natural it becomes. Don’t get discouraged if your first few events feel awkward—it gets better!
The key is to be authentic, show genuine interest in others, and approach networking with a mindset of adding value to the people you meet. If you focus on building meaningful, lasting relationships instead of just “networking,” you’ll see far greater results.
Final Thoughts
Networking events can be one of the most powerful tools for growing your career or business, but it’s important to go in with the right mindset and strategy. It’s not about how many business cards you collect, but the quality of the relationships you build. When you arrive with purpose, engage in meaningful conversations, and follow up with intention, you’ll turn those networking events into opportunities for real growth and connection.