How to Make the Most of a Business Networking Event

Let’s start with the obvious: The first step to making the most of a networking event is to actually show up. Yes, I know, revolutionary advice. But you’d be surprised how many people RSVP, polish their LinkedIn profile, and then decide their couch is the better networking opportunity. If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of half the field.

But let’s assume you’re past the hardest part-leaving the house. Now what?

1. Don’t Be a Ghost-Be Early (or Stay Late)

Here’s the secret nobody tells you: The best conversations happen before the official agenda starts and after it ends. Arrive early, when the coffee is fresh and the room isn’t full of small talk fatigue. Or stay late, when the crowd thins out and people drop their guard. That’s when you’ll have real conversations-not just the “So, what do you do?” routine.

2. Forget the Elevator Pitch-Ask Real Questions

Everyone’s got a 30-second pitch. Most sound like they were written by ChatGPT on a deadline. Skip the script. Instead, ask something that makes people pause:

• “What’s the most unexpected thing you’ve learned at this event?”
• “If your LinkedIn headline was honest, what would it say?”
• “What’s the worst networking advice you’ve ever followed?”

You’ll get better answers-and better stories to remember people by.

3. Play the Long Game (But Don’t Collect Cards Like Pokémon)

There’s always someone trying to set the world record for business cards collected. Don’t be that person. One genuine conversation beats twenty shallow ones every time. If you connect, make a note-mental or physical-about what stood out. Follow up with something specific (“Still thinking about your story about the failed startup-let’s grab coffee and swap more war stories?”).

4. Find the Outsiders

Cliques form fast at these events. The best connections are often the people standing alone, hovering awkwardly near the snack table. Be the person who brings them in. You’ll be remembered-not just for your business, but for being human.

5. Use the Name Tag (and Not Just to Remember Your Own Name)

If the event gives you a name tag, don’t just slap it on and forget about it. Add a conversation starter below your name (“Ask me about: launching a business in Dubai” or “I know where the best coffee is”). It’s a built-in icebreaker, and you’ll save everyone from the dreaded “So… what do you do?” opener.

6. Have a Plan-But Be Ready to Ditch It

Go in with a goal: Meet three new people, learn one thing you didn’t know, or find a potential collaborator. But if the best conversation you have is with someone totally outside your target list, embrace it. The best opportunities are rarely the ones you planned for.

7. Follow Up Like a Pro (Not a Sales Bot)

The event ends. Most people disappear, never to be seen again. Don’t be most people. Send a short, personal message within 24 hours. Reference something specific you talked about. Don’t pitch. Just reconnect. Relationships are built in the follow-up, not the handshake.

8. Bonus: Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously

Networking isn’t a job interview. It’s not speed dating for business. If you spill coffee on yourself, laugh. If you forget someone’s name, admit it. People remember how you made them feel, not how perfectly you recited your resume.

And if all else fails? There’s always the snack table. Some of the best deals start over a shared complaint about stale pastries.