What do you do if you want to stand out at job search networking events?

Standing out at job search networking events involves a combination of preparation, presentation, and follow-up. Here’s what has worked well for me: 1. Craft a concise and compelling introduction that highlights your unique skills and experiences. Practice delivering it confidently. 2. Learn about the event and attendees in advance. This allows you to tailor your conversations and show genuine interest. 3. Dress appropriately and carry a professional demeanor. First impressions matter. 4. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and share insights. Engaging conversations make you memorable. 5. Collect business cards and follow up with personalized messages. This shows your initiative and reinforces connections.

Do a bit of research on the typical dress code for the industry you’re targeting. For example, creative or tech industries might prefer more casual attire, while finance usually goes for more formal. And, also choose clothes that not only look good but also feel comfortable on you. Being comfortable boosts your confidence and helps you focus more on networking effectively. Also, keep accessories or jewelry to a minimum; a little goes a long way.

You never get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression, so make it count! Presenting a professional image, can help boost one's confidence in the job search. Taking the time to present yourself in a professional manner, may be just the edge you need to stand out from the crowd of other applicants!

Crafting a professional yet natural pitch is key to successful job search networking. Your pitch should concisely highlight who you are, what you do, and your career goals. Practice to ensure it sounds natural and engaging, not overly rehearsed. Focus on sparking curiosity and inviting follow-up questions. A compelling elevator pitch can pave the way for deeper conversations and opportunities. Tailor your message to each event, and remember to listen actively to others. This approach not only showcases your strengths but also demonstrates your genuine interest in connecting. If you want to learn more, follow me on LinkedIn and listen to my podcast, The Job Hunting Podcast!

A tiny tip I learned from one of the career coach I follow. If you're at a networking event and meet someone you would like to connect with on LinkedIn, get your phones out, open your LI apps, go to the search bar tap on it and you'll see two tabs. One of them is a QR scanner. One of you can 'zap' the other... it saves you searching for that person by their name. Tap connect in the usual way.

When crafting your elevator pitch, focus on highlighting a few key points: 1. Who you are - Briefly introduce yourself and your professional background. 2. What you do - Describe your core skills, areas of expertise, and the value you can provide. 3. What you're looking for - Clearly articulate the type of opportunity you're seeking, whether that's a new job, consulting work, industry connections, etc.

Some people might think that being extroverted and talking more will make you stand out at any networking event, but that’s not necessarily the case. It’s important to be balanced. Listen carefully to what others say, then reflect back what you’ve heard to show understanding. A simple summary of their points before you respond can show that you’re not only listening but also processing the information. Also, pay attention to the other person’s body language and facial expressions, as these can give you insights into their feelings and attitudes, helping you respond more appropriately. And remember, let the other person finish speaking without interrupting. This shows respect and ensures you fully understand their message before you reply.

Share your business cards or dot cards (virtual business cards) with individuals and companies you meet. Hand them out or share the QR code with individuals that you had a meaningful conversation with. If they also give you their business card, follow up with them expressing gratitude that you met them, which is critical in developing a new network/relationship.

Aim for sincere connections! Go in with the following goals: 1. Learn the names of 3 people 2. Email 1 person The goal is activity, not outcomes - You can't control what happens but you can set reasonable expectations and aim to enjoy the process - If you get the names of more than 3 people, fantastic! But set goals that are achievable - One sincere connection and email is more valuable than 5 that feel fake (and they feel the fakeness too!) P.S. The goal here is to go and not hate the entire thing! P.P.S. If you focus on one sincere connection, you stand a chance of potentially even enjoying it :)

I have attended many networking events with much success. My top tips: * Always be professional * Display confidence and excitement * Bring multiple copies of your resume * Have your 30 second 'elevator pitch' down * Obtain people's information at the event, not after. Connect with them on LinkedIn right away. * Engage in meaningful conversation and try to form true connections * Offer value to others and realize that networking is a two way street After the event, follow up with the people you have met, expressing your gratitude and as much as possible, stay in contact with these individuals.

Meaningful connections at networking events come from being MEMORABLE - and for the right reason. And that rarely looks like, "I'll shake hands and exchange business cards with everyone." Combine many of the pieces above and focus on just a handful - or LESS - of conversations that you can have with the right profile so that you build stronger long-term relationships. Researching attendees & presenters in advance is a great way to build a target list. Show up with your Personal Brand ready to display. LISTEN AND LEARN, and then follow-up. You don't have to do this with 500 new connections. 5 is enough.