How can you maximize networking events as a self-employed communicator?

1 Prepare your goals and pitch

Before you attend any networking event, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you want to present yourself. Do some research on the event, the organizers, the speakers, and the attendees. Identify who you want to meet, why you want to meet them, and what value you can offer them. Then, craft a concise and compelling pitch that summarizes who you are, what you do, and how you can help. Practice your pitch until you can deliver it confidently and naturally.

2 Bring your essentials

Networking events are not only about talking, but also about exchanging information and following up. That's why you should always bring your essentials, such as your business cards, your portfolio, your resume, or any other relevant materials. Make sure your essentials are professional, updated, and easy to access. You don't want to fumble around with your phone or your bag while trying to make a good impression. You also want to make sure your essentials have your contact details, your website, and your social media handles, so that people can reach out to you later.

4 Follow the etiquette

Networking events are professional environments where certain etiquette rules must be followed. These rules may vary depending on the type, size, and culture of the event, but some general ones include dressing appropriately for the occasion and audience, arriving on time and staying until the end, respecting the agenda and speakers, not interrupting or dominating conversations, not selling or pitching too aggressively, not drinking or eating too much, not spamming or stalking people online or offline, and remembering to say thank you and goodbye.

5 Follow up and follow through

Networking events are not one-time events, but the start of a relationship. You need to follow up and follow through if you want to turn your contacts into clients, collaborators, or mentors. Within 24 hours of the event, send a personalized email or message to the people you met and remind them of who you are and what you talked about. Express your appreciation and interest in staying in touch. If you promised to do something, such as sending a link, a sample, or a referral, do it as soon as possible. If you want to meet again, suggest a date, time, and place. Keep the communication going until you achieve your goal or move on.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?