Do you ever feel nervous before going to a networking event? Maybe you worry that you'll be awkward, that people won't take you seriously because you're young, or that you might say something wrong. These thoughts might make you want to skip the event altogether.
While self-promotion is essential for businesses, it is still tricky and hard for women entrepreneurs. Networking events are all about self-promotion, so we understand that it can be uncomfortable sometimes. However, it is equally important for your business and helps you build stronger professional relationships.
But if you can identify an effective way to make the most of a networking event, this task might become simple and easy for you. And we are here to help you with some "Dos" and "Don'ts" to make it easier for you. Firstly, let's take a look at the "Dos" that women entrepreneurs should keep in mind when attending a networking event:
- Do keep your calm: Be yourself. Avoid getting panicked or anxious. Put on that smile and be confident. Whenever attending a networking event, greet people warmly and say that you are genuinely interested in getting to know them and their work.
- Do focus on meeting the right people: Do connect with people based on how they are going to help you in your business, be it your investors, collaborators, mentors, or customers. You need to know the right people to approach; and also, how to approach the right people in the right places at the right time.
- Do let your achievements and USP shine: Do focus on what you're good at and what you've achieved. For example, talk about projects or clients you've worked on that you enjoyed or new things you're learning. This shows that you're passionate and dedicated.
- Do memorize an elevator pitch: Be an enthusiast about your business. Have that skill of pitching what you do as an entrepreneur in 30 seconds or, say, 60 seconds, and making that lasting impression on the person you are greeting. Instead of preparing one pitch, prepare at least 2-3 different types of business elevator pitch in your mind, so that you can choose based on how much time you have and who you are addressing.
Now let's take a look at the Don'ts that a woman entrepreneur should avoid doing at a networking event:
- Don't sound "Pushy": Being too pushy or salesy can turn people off because nobody likes feeling like they're being sold something. Networking is a place to connect with people, but do not sound desperate. You should talk about your business and skills in a convincing way, but also have a normal conversation.
- Don't forget to follow up: After you have connected with someone at an event, don't forget to follow up with them. It's a good idea to send them a thank-you note or email afterward. This shows their appreciation for the time they spent with you and keeps the connection alive. It's like saying, "Thanks for meeting." It's a small gesture, but it can leave a big impression and help build a stronger relationship.
- Don't rely on a single event: There are various types of networking events; don't just rely on a single one to make connections. Try different things, like attending events on social media, having video calls with individuals, taking part in events that are happening locally, attending industry-specific conferences, and many more. By doing all these things, you open yourself up to more chances to meet new people and discover opportunities. If you only stick to one method, you might miss out on a lot of cool stuff.
- Don't speak about work the entire time: Networking events aren't just about work. It's also about meeting new people and getting to know them in an interesting way. You may improve your relationship with them by knowing so many things, including their likes and dislikes and their perspective about work as well.
Well, they are just a few "Dos and Don'ts" that we covered for you in this article for your maximum advantage. We have more "Dos and Don'ts" that we will cover in our next one, so stay tuned for more such insightful content that will help you in your entrepreneurial journey.
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