Do I have to go? Whom will I talk to? What do I say?
These questions used to flood my mind anytime a networking event was presented.
I envied those that waltzed into a networking event with such relaxation and grace and that could approach strangers. I’d much rather be sitting at a table with my friends sipping a cocktail having a fun, effortless conversation.
The purpose of networking events is to enhance your career through making professional connections. Name tags, beverages of some sort (not always alcohol), and/or appetizers may accompany a networking event to give a relaxed atmosphere. It didn’t relax me. Once that name tag was on, I was feeling alone in a crowd of people. It’s where my nerves would immediately kick in.
Thankfully, with some practice, I learned some ways to calm down, take a breath and enjoy myself. This is how:
People are there to talk! Believe me, I know it is intimidating to walk up to a stranger and introduce yourself. But the chances of being completely ignored are very slim. People expect to be approached and talked to at networking events.
Have a conversation. This is your chance to wow them. No pressure right? Try to think of it as a conversation you’re having with a close friend. This relaxed me and I was able to speak more freely without the nervousness. Exchange of professions is common but it can go anywhere from there. I’ve found that asking general questions (regarding: venue, where they are from, etc.) can lead to topics that are easy to talk about.
These brief conversations can lead to good things. Perhaps I’ll see this person at another networking event, thankful I know a familiar face. Who knows? Eventually that person could turn into a friend who sits with me at a table while sipping cocktails.
After reaching out to a someone recently for an interview to supplement a story I was writing, I was surprised when the person offered to meet for the interview over coffee, rather than just answering the questions via email (as routinely done).
Today, Revelation hit the five-year mark in business. As I think about those five years, I remember the challenges, hardships, frustrations, heart-breaks and anxiety of being a business owner … but I also remember the triumphs, joy, relief, sense of accomplishment and confidence-builders. I also am forever grateful to all the people who helped me grow Revelation.