How to Prepare for a Networking Event if You Hate Networking
- Community Futures Howe Sound
- 15 hours ago
- 3 min read
There are a lot of brilliant opportunities for business networking in the Sea to Sky – here are just five of them - but that doesn’t necessarily make it easier to take that step.
For business owners who prefer to stay behind the scenes, networking can feel more like a chore than the fun social events they’re designed to be.
So for the many people who hate networking, here’s our guide to networking!
Remember What Networking Actually Is
A lot of people associate networking with forced conversations and awkward self-promotion.
In reality, it’s just about meeting new people. You’re not there to impress everyone in the room or walk away with a dozen business cards. A better goal is to have two or three genuine conversations.
If you go in simply aiming to learn about others, the experience becomes much less intimidating and far more enjoyable.
Make a List of Questions You Want to Be Asked
Think about the questions you wish people would ask you, especially ones that let you talk about your work in a meaningful way.
For example, maybe you’d love someone to ask about a recent project, or what you’re currently excited about. Once you’ve identified those questions, use them as conversation starters with others.
Not only should this get people chatting excitedly about what they’re keen to share, there’s a good chance they’ll ask you the same questions in return. It creates a more natural back-and-forth and leads to more interesting conversations.
Wear Something Memorable
You don’t need to wear anything loud or over-the-top to stand out. A small, memorable detail is enough to make you more approachable and easier to remember.
This could be a unique pin, an interesting scarf, or simply a piece of clothing with your brand on it. These small touches can become easy conversation starters. Someone might comment on it, giving you a natural opening to chat without forcing it.
It also helps people recall who you are after the event, which is half the battle with networking.
Ask the Organizers for Introductions
Event organizers are more than happy to help people connect, especially since they usually know the attendees.
Let them know the types of people you’d like to meet, whether that’s entrepreneurs like yourself, those working in a specific industry, or perhaps people who have experience in a current challenge you’re facing, such as hiring or onboarding.
They can introduce you to a few relevant people, which removes the awkwardness of approaching strangers cold. Plus, it will give you a conversation starter straight off the bat (“I really wanted to talk to you because...”).
Give Yourself Permission to Leave
One of the biggest sources of anxiety around networking can be feeling like you’re stuck there. But this isn’t a birthday party where you need to say goodbye to everyone in the room before heading out – you can simply get going.
If you reach a point where you feel like you’ve met some people and had a few good conversations, give yourself permission to leave. Keeping it short and sweet for your first few events might help you build your comfort levels for future events.
Say Hello to Your Local Commumity Futures Rep
While we can’t attend every event, one of our Community Futures Howe Sound team often attends various Chamber Apres events, the Excellence Awards, and other community business gatherings.
We love to see our clients out and about, and meet with local business owners.
And if you don’t catch us at a networking event, we’re always available for one-on-one business advice sessions and coaching!
