Making the Most Out of Business Networking Events

We've all attended a business networking event in our lifetime if we're serious about getting our name out there. I can think of a few painful ones myself where I felt like a wallflower at the prom with so many outgoing, buzzing entrepreneurs pretending to listen to my spiel just so I'd have to return the favor. Barely did I get a word out before someone else that was louder and more intriguing took my would be associates over to their conversation and I was left feeling like a leper.

After a few of these events I decided if I wanted to get my name out there and really utilize some of these events I would have to change my strategy. Here are a few ways to bring the attention your way without being brash or obnoxious.

1. Introduce Yourself
Regardless if you've been to the exact event before introduce yourself to folks you don't know as the newbie. People love to spend time with someone they think hasn't heard about them and you can get their cards without seeming overly presumptuous so that you can email or call them after the event. Make sure you have a business card ready as well and let them know you'd love to hear more about their business and your company offers "solutions" (not products) that might be of benefit to them as well.

2. Ask Questions
People love to talk about themselves but the one that can control a conversation with questions is the true winner. Asking questions allows you to find out information you want to know and take the heat off of yourself when you may feel like you are being put in a corner or pigeon holed on a particular topic. For instance if you are in a really small office (one man show) and they are bragging about their incredible office on the golf course ask about their office and what they found is the best way to lease a building or any advice they would give to someone looking to sign a contract with a landlord. This takes the onus off of you to describe your bleaker scenario and you can use it as a discussion point later if you want to get back with them. This way the competition is leveled when you have an audience around you listening to the "mine is better than yours" show.

3. Be Funny!
Everyone likes someone who is fun and doesn't take themselves too seriously. They want to feel comfortable and be noticed and giving compliments and involving others in the conversation will make you the center of attention not the wallflower.

Networking events don't have to be a bore or a chore. Just don't take yourself too seriously and try to mingle and make sure you find the folks you want to do business with and don't get caught up in too much conversation that won't lead you to future clients...