Maximizing Connections with Confiva’s 10 steps Networking Checklist

Live events and conferences offer a unique opportunity for attendees to network, share ideas, and advance their careers. However, navigating through crowded venues and engaging sessions can be challenging. To make the most out of these events, it’s crucial to master the art of networking.

We attended Dani Komunikacija this April in Rovinj and we know the struggle of managing enjoying the event and simultaneously networking and expanding professionally.

This article presents valuable tips and strategies that will help you enhance your networking experience and thrive in live or virtual event settings. By going through 10 steps below you have the potential to create meaningful connections and take your career to the next level.

Research Speakers and Attendees:

• Look up speakers and key attendees beforehand to identify potential connections.
• Follow them on social media and engage with their content to establish familiarity.

”Elevator Pitch”:

• Prepare a concise and engaging elevator pitch that highlights who you are and what you do.
• Practice delivering it confidently to make a strong first impression.

Breakout Sessions and Workshops:

• Participate actively in breakout sessions and workshops to engage with like-minded professionals.
• Ask questions, share insights, and connect with speakers and fellow attendees during these sessions.

Networking Events:

• Attend networking events such as cocktail hours, receptions, and dinners.
• Approach individuals or groups with open-ended questions to initiate conversations and build relationships.

Body Language:

• Pay attention to your body language to appear approachable and friendly.
• Maintain eye contact, smile, and use open gestures to convey confidence and warmth.

Exchange Contact Information:

• Exchange business cards or contact information with people you meet.
• Take notes on the back of business cards or on your phone to remember key details about each contact.

Networking Tools:

• Use conference apps or networking platforms (like our Confiva) to connect with attendees before, during, and after the event.
• Schedule meetings or coffee chats with potential collaborators or mentors.

Be Approachable:

• Don’t hesitate to initiate conversations with others, even if you’re attending the event alone.
• Approach groups with an open mind and join discussions that align with your interests.

Give Value:

• Offer assistance or share resources that may be valuable to others in your network.
• Actively listen for opportunities to provide help or support to your connections.

Stay Curious:

• Be curious about others’ experiences, perspectives, and industry insights.
• Approach networking as an opportunity to learn and grow professionally.

All of the steps above can be covered as well on a virtual event, making it even easier to network and ”slide into DM’s” of similar-minded attendees. That is why we at Confiva support the organization of hybrid events. Make attendees choose whether to participate in person or online and allow all of the attendees to tick their in-person or virtual Networking Checklist!