How can you overcome anxiety when networking at trade shows?

Few Points to get started Prepare and Research: a. Research the companies and individuals who will be present at the trade show. b. Set specific goals for what you want to achieve during the event. c. Develop a short introduction about yourself and your interests Practice Your Elevator Pitch: a. Create a concise and engaging elevator pitch that introduces yourself and your professional background. b. Practice it until you feel confident delivering it naturally Focus on Listening: a. Shift the focus from your anxiety to the person you are talking to. b. Actively listen to what others are saying, which can help take your mind off your own nervousness.

I started working in Sales within the Events industry some 25 years ago. I remember the feeling of dread and doubt during my first experiences, when I saw everyone already talking to someone else or already in a group that looked like they were best mates. My fear was based around how to break through to these groups and what would people think of me if and when I tried. I used to think, do I know enough about my trade or will l look silly if I do not understand the discussion or a question thrown at me. My recommendation to overcome these fears is to focus on wanting your personal comfort zone to grow. Tell this to yourself everyday. I used to also tell myself that I was literally paid to talk - just talk - that's all. It helped.

I participated in my first ever speaking role last year. This was a major deal for me, not least because in was in the states. Anxious is an understatement, I was terrified. However I practiced my speech so many times at home whilst being recorded or in front of the mirror and that role play was super helpful. All I wanted was to get through the 50min presentation without messing up. Guess what? The IT system used did that for me, and I was so relieved seeing others having the same issues. Of course this blip made my anxiety much worse, so I looked around the room and essentially had a conversation with the audience. Once my IT was sorted I was back on track and finished bang on time.

Check out ways the conference or trade show already has to meet people - is there a happy hour? Are there first come, first serve lunch or dinner groups? Are there outings? Sometimes these (smaller) group events can be less intimidating and easier to form connections.

It's so important to realize that many (if not all) others are attending with similar goals. They want to meet new people and talk to them, and it's intimidating for almost everyone. Chat with people one on one, or small groups, or scheduled time to meet up with specific individuals - whatever makes you most comfortable. The worst that will happen is a no, or a no response, but that happens to everyone - it's not you.

Some people may define anxiety as the result of trying to manage a reality that doesn't exist. It would be caused because of the fears of possible unwished situations or the simple attempt to manage the future that never comes; as all we can manage is our present. Meditation and breathing exercises are always a right way to achive personal balance, and is definetelly the way overcome stress on any situation.