Networking is the lifeblood of brand building. But how can you effectively practice this art? How do you fit this crucial brand-building tool in our social tool belt?
Today, we will discuss networking and how to overcome certain daunting elements.
What is Networking?
Before we dive into some much-needed steps to conquer networking, let’s define what networking is and what it does for you and your brand.
At its core, networking is the strategic process of building and, most importantly, nurturing professional relationships that can lead to new opportunities, knowledge exchange, and career advancement.
Networking, in general, involves more than simply exchanging business cards or connecting on social media; to effectively network, it requires genuine human-to-human engagement, active listening, and mutual value creation between people.
How to overcome social anxiety when networking
Now that we have a basic understanding of networking let’s discuss how to overcome the social hurdles that can make you feel anxious and nervous about It.
As we’ve stated before, networking is more than just exchanging business cards or social media; it’s about making an honest and genuine connection. So, how do you get to that level?
One of the easiest ways to network is to have confidence in your networking skills, but sometimes, social anxiety gets in the way of meaningful connections.
The truth is that overcoming social anxiety while networking can feel daunting, but with the right mindset and a few tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be a pro in no time.
The first trick is to start by remembering that everyone in the room is human and probably shares some of the same nervousness you do
Another solid idea is to break the ice with a smile and a simple, “Hi, I’m (whatever your name is)….What brings you here today?”—it’s a low-pressure way to get the conversation going.
Now, If you feel overwhelmed, simply take a deep breath and remind yourself that it’s okay to take a few social breaks here and there. Finding a quiet corner or stepping outside to recharge is also okay.
Another great tip is to set small, achievable goals, like speaking to three new people or exchanging business cards with at least two others. This makes the process of networking a little more attainable for you.
Our most important trick throughout your networking process is to focus on listening rather than impressing; showing genuine interest in others takes the pressure off you and makes you memorable in the best way possible. This is a basic overview of how
Top 10 Networking Tips for Exhibitors
10. Exhibit with a mission
When attacking your next trade show or expo event, it should go without saying that you should always have a mission or goal. Whether that mission is to meet three new people in your industry or give your business card to three potential clients, you’ve set a standard for yourself that could pay off in the long run.
This should be your first step to a successful networking opportunity.
9. Stand outside your booth
While your booth is vitally important to your presentation at your next event, you still don’t need to be tethered to it. At most convention centers, you have plenty of room to expand outwards and own not just your booth area but also the outer limits of your display area. This allows you to network freely and gives you more room.
8. Avoid talking with your coworkers
There’s no denying you love your coworkers… most of them. However, your goal is to meet new prospective clients or even industry peers. You should be talking to them, not your coworkers.
7. Ask open-ended questions
Whether an attendee or prospective client approaches you or you go to them, you should be asking them open-ended questions about themselves or their brand.
You need to get to know every aspect of their business or even them personally. That’s how you make connections.
6. Listen, listen, and listen
Even more importantly, you should be listening to anyone on the trade show floor. It’s imperative you get to know everyone who crosses your path, and the easiest way to do so is to listen.
5. Practice how you ask
Whether you’re asking to scan their badge or even setting up a business meeting for later, you should practice asking for certain things.
One of the key elements of networking is to ask for what you want. Once you develop a relationship and listen intently, eventually, your next step is to ask for what you want.
4. Avoid eating food in your booth
This should go without saying, but you should completely avoid eating or drinking near your product or services. The worst thing for you to do is to take yourself away from networking while you’re eating. Most people won’t approach you if you’re eating. It’s that simple.
3. Attend educational sessions
It’s important to keep up with the trends of your certain industry. It’s also vitally important to be educated in all the advancements in your industry. We highly suggest you participate in educational sessions given out by other trade show exhibitors. It should go without saying that these educational sessions are important for the advancement of your brand.
2. Speak in an educational session
You should also speak at these educational sessions. This is a great way to get your name out there, which will build credibility amongst the event goers, thus giving you more ample opportunity to network. It is also a great way to meet people who could become quality clients for you down the road.
1. Follow-up after the show
After the show is over, it’s important to follow up no longer than a week after the initial meeting. You should be sending an email that looks something like this…
“Hi (prospective clients’ first name), I really enjoyed our conversation about (whatever you were talking about). I hope you had safe travels back home and are settling in nicely. Let me know if you’re interested in (whatever service or product), and we can set up a more relaxed meeting. Thanks (prospective client’s first name).”
This simple but right-to-the-point email will keep you connected to anyone you might have made a connection with. This could spawn a long-lasting networking partner that could be the key to advancing your brand.
Final thoughts
Networking is the lifeblood of your brand’s advancement. It’s incredibly important to make it a central function of your agenda at your next event.
Yes, trade shows can be about showcasing a product or service, but it’s important to understand that networking needs to become a central focus of any event.
It’s up to you to follow these common steps to put your best networking foot forward, which could advance your brand to new heights.
The Trade Group is a full-service trade show and event marketing company. We will work with you to create an exhibit or an event that brings in leads and helps you achieve your business goals. Contact us here or give us a call at 800-343-2005.
