So You've RSVP'd To A Networking Event.... Now What?

I often get invited to networking events with various groups, such as my college alumni association, professional organizations, and a variety of community organizations.  Invaritable I get emails from friends asking me if I'm attending this event or that.  Or I'll show up at an event and run into someone I know - who proceeds to cling to me the entire night.  Why does the thought of networking paralyzes some people?

Here are some tips that will help you get over your fear and go from novice to pro in no time.

• Prepare and practice a 30 second evevator spiel about who you are, and what you do.  This is your opportunity to sell yourself in a brief and friendly way.
• Ask people about what they do.  People often feel comfortable talking about themselves, this gives you an opportunity to get to know the individual and develop follow-up questions
• Ask do they come to these sorts of events often.  Sometimes finding out that others are not experienced at this puts you at ease.  If you find that they are experienced ask them for tips on how to get the most out of this experience.
• Always keep your business cards on hand, preferably in a nice card holder.  Sometimes the card holder itself can be fodder for conversation as an icebreaker.
• Don't drink too much... you are trying to make business contacts, the last thing you want to do is give a bad first impression.
• Practice a firm handshake and more importantly a smooth release.  Don't hold on to people's hand too long, its awkward for the person and it conveys a sense of desperation.
• Keep it light and business like when talking about yourself.  People don't want to hear your life's story or that you are getting a divorce.  Always keep things positive and light.
• Try to gather at least 3 to 5 business cards per event.  If you have a chance to jot down something that stood out about the conversation on the back of the card even better.
• It's okay to follow up with a brief email the next day.  Briefly state how much you enjoyed meeting them and maybe mention a mutual interest that surfaced during the encounter.

I hope these tips have helped you to at least think about how to prepare for your next networking event.  Happy Networking!