It’s sometimes said that your network is your net worth. We couldn’t agree more: after all, the world of work is built on relationships. People prefer to connect with other people rather than brands or companies.
But building your network takes time and effort. And if being in a room full of strangers isn’t your cup of tea, we get that you might not exactly be thrilled by the idea.
Here at Kindred, we run networking events all the time. So believe us when we say: they don’t have to be awkward, scary or boring. It’s all about choosing the right event for you—and how you approach it.
Here’s how to get the most out of a networking event.
What is a networking event?
But first: the basics. A networking event is any type of gathering where professionals aim to meet new people and build new connections.
It could be a casual meetup in a pub or restaurant, or mingling after a panel talk. Perhaps it’s a structured event where you’re introduced to people you might click with. We’ve also seen events centred around activities like walking, workshops, or team-building activities.
What should I wear to a networking event?
As a rule of thumb, business casual attire is usually fine. That basically means that you look smart but not too formal: think slacks, closed shoes and collared shirts or blouses.
But the dress code can also depend on the nature of the event or the industry that you’re in. For instance, networking events for creatives tend to be more relaxed, so smart casual might be totally fine. Though if you’re in a more corporate field, for instance in finance or legal, business attire (suits, pencil skirts, etc) may be more appropriate.
You could also wear something eye-catching to help strike up conversations and to make you more memorable. For instance, like statement earrings or a colourful brooch, or interesting shoes. We personally love this approach!
How do I approach people at a networking event?
It’s easier than you think—trust us. Start by making eye contact and smiling. If the other person reciprocates, walk over, say hello and introduce yourself. It really is that simple.
Keep things polite and concise. Let them know you are and what you do (if relevant) and then ask them some open-ended questions to start the conversation. For instance: what are you working on at the moment? What made you want to come to this event?
What you say and the questions you ask could depend on your objectives (more on that below). For example, if you’re looking to connect with potential clients, you might ask them questions about their work to get a sense of the problems they need help with. And then you can tell them what you do as part of that same conversation.
How to network at an event
Okay, so how do you actually network once you’re at the event? Here’s our step-by-step guide.
1. Define your goals
First, you should ask yourself what you want to get out of this event. Are you looking for a new job, someone to collaborate with, or perhaps new clients? This can help you be more focused in your approach—so you aren’t just making chat for the sake of it nor wandering around aimlessly.
2. Do your research
Determine which type of networking events would be most relevant for you. At Kindred, we know that events focused on a specific industry or interest work best: people at these events automatically have something in common and are more likely to make valuable connections.
In our experience, having some structure to an event also works well. This could be matching people up who might click or having icebreaker activities, like human bingo. It creates a shared experience and helps to get people talking naturally.
Plus, a lot of networking events will give you a list of attendees ahead of time. Following on from your goals, go through the list and narrow down which people (or types of people: for instance, if they have certain job titles or work in a particular industry) it would be most beneficial for you to talk to. Note down the names of anyone you especially want to meet.
3. Arrive on time
We know that this might sound nerve-wracking, but it’s much easier to be noticed and start conversations when there’s fewer people in the room.
Think of it as extra practice. Like any other skill, networking is something you can learn and get good at. And after a while, it will start to feel like second nature, we promise!
4. Introduce yourself
Now it’s time to introduce yourself. You want to keep this short and sweet—but it’s also a chance for you to let your conversation partner know a bit about you.
For example, if you’re trying to attract clients, you could summarise your service offering in a way that feels conversational rather than salesy: “Hi, I’m Jane. I work with hospitality brands to grow their audiences online. How about you?”
Or if you’re looking for a job: “Hi, I’m Rob. I’m a senior creative director, and I’m actually looking for my next role.”
The key here is to be conversational rather than hard-selling yourself.
5. Ask friendly, open-ended questions
Next, kick things off by asking some open-ended questions. Have they been enjoying the event so far? What is it that they do? What made them decide to come to today’s event?
If there’s someone in particular that you want to meet, it’s okay to tell them. Here, you want to avoid coming across like you want something from them—or like you’re about to pitch them something: “Are you Sasha Thomson? I saw your name on the attendees list and was hoping to meet you, your company looks so interesting! I work in the field too.”
6. Be curious and interested
People are more likely to open up to you if they feel you’re genuinely interested in what they’re saying. We’re not suggesting that you pretend here—only that you approach each conversation with an open mind and curiosity to learn.
That might mean asking questions about their professional background or what they like about their current role, or how they entered the field in the first place.
And don’t forget: you should listen just as much as you talk. Not only will this give a good impression, but it will help you to understand your conversation partner better. This can get conversation flowing more smoothly.
7. Don’t hard sell
As tempting as it may be to pitch your wares to prospective clients who are standing right in front of you: don’t. When people feel like you’re only trying to get something out of them, they’ll naturally close themselves off. And that can be hard to come back from.
Instead, bring up what you do or what you’re looking for in a way that feels organic to the conversation. At this stage, your aim is to come across favourably and pique their interest.
8. Offer contact information
When the conversation winds up, you want to give your new connections a way to stay in touch with you. A fairly casual way to do this is just to add each other on LinkedIn, but it’s up to you—if swapping emails feels right, go for it.
9. Follow up
And finally: don’t forget to follow up. Send your new contacts a friendly note saying that it was nice to meet them. You should do this a day or two after the event, while you’re still fresh in their minds.
If it’s appropriate, you could try to get a follow-up meeting in the diary. You might offer them a free demo of your product or suggest a virtual coffee, for instance.
Alternatively, if you’re following them on social media, you could also decide to build the relationship on there (by engaging with their content, for instance) rather than suggest another meeting right away.
How do I find networking events in London?
There’s no shortage of networking events here in the city. But that introduces a new problem: how to shift through all the options and find one that’s right for you?
At Kindred, we create intentional networking events designed to facilitate conversation and collaboration. We run events for professionals in particular industries, as well as for Londoners simply looking to make some new friends.
Every year, we host TogethernessFest: a week-long festival of dinners, walks, talks, and workshops aimed at bringing people together. Whether you’re up for having dinner with 100 strangers or are simply keen for some company while walking your dog—we’ve got something for you.
You’re invited to join us. We can’t wait to meet you.
