Know your goal. Do you want to socialize with other people who understand the woes of selling advertising in a poor economy? Or are you looking for potential clients, a new job, or career advice? Be clear about your networking goals for the evening before you’re standing in a dark bar with a colorful mixed drink.
Perfect your introduction. Brainstorm some easy, witty things to say that will help break the ice. For example, “My name is Molly and I work at A to Z Communications” is kind of blah—it’s more or less what everyone says. Instead be as descriptive as possible. “My name is Molly Sullivan and I am a marketing assistant at A to Z Communications—we handle PR and marketing for independently owned boutiques.” That tells your new contact significantly more details about who you are and what you do. It also opens the door to better communication and a conversation that may help you accomplish your goal for the evening.
Plan a follow-up question. Once the introductions are complete, it’s now time to get to know the other person. Steer clear of lame questions like “Do you like your job?” and get in-depth: “How many clients do you represent?” “Do you do a lot of advertising?” “Is your firm large or small?” These all allow you to learn more about the person you’re talking to, the business they work for, and their specific job.
Come prepared. Make sure you have plenty of business cards in an easily accessible pocket. Ideally you’ll exchange them with every person you talk to. If your conversation has been especially positive, send a personalized and genuine follow-up e-mail letting people know how glad you were to meet them.
Don’t be shy. A networking meet-up is a place where you are expected to chat with other people, make new friends, and talk openly about yourself and your job. This is not the night to sit at the bar, nurse a beer, and watch people. Don’t imbibe too much, but loosen up, laugh, and be friendly. Don’t be afraid to talk about your strengths, and about what excites you in your field right now. If you enter the room comfortable and confident, you’ll be far more likely to exit it with lots of good contacts and a positive feeling about what you accomplished that evening.
