Networking is a valuable way to expand your knowledge, learn from the success of others, and attain new clients. For some, attending a networking event can be intimidating. Your BATC Young Professionals have some advice for how to make it easier. Here are their networking do’s and don’ts.
Do:
- Introduce yourself or others/start a conversation
- Ask questions (work related and non-work)
- Work the room/socialize/meet new people
- Follow-up after the event
- Body Language-smile, firm handshake, eye contact
- Attire (professional, appropriate & to feel good)
- Offer to buy them a drink
- Be engaging/interact
- Research/prepare (when possible)
- Be on time
- Shut up and listen
- Remember Names
- Wear your name tag
- Take notes
Don’t:
- Keep to yourself
- Drink too much
- Don’t be distracted (focused on phone, laptop, etc.)
- Talk too much
- Don’t stick to your own crew
- Don’t be scared to ask for advice or hear from the competition
- Don’t be salesperson
- Don’t harass potential clients
- Forget business cards
- Don’t talk about yourself the whole time
- Call someone by the wrong name
- Show up late
- Only go to promote you/your company
Hope to see you at our next BATC Event!
