Networking Is Work. Here’s How to Prepare for It.
If you’re about to walk into your first networking meeting, this is for you. I’m going to cover everything you need to think about before you even leave the house. But even if you’re a seasoned pro, stick around. You might pick up a new strategy or just get a fresh dose of motivation for getting out there. When you’re , making these events count is crucial.
The truth is, if you want your business to succeed, not networking isn’t an option. Whatever industry you’re in, your competitors are out there meeting people. Having that human connection—shaking a hand and putting a face to a social media profile—is too valuable to pass up. The way we get our brand out there is changing. Social media has put word-of-mouth marketing on steroids, but the original version is still incredibly powerful. Having people who know, like, and trust you in real life gives a massive boost to all your other marketing efforts.
With events happening over breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the question isn’t to go, but how often. The more visible you are, the faster you build relationships and credibility. The best way to do that is to just dive in.
Networking Is Part of the Job
I often hear people say they can’t afford to take time out of their business to go networking. They treat it like a luxury—something you do only when every other task is done. People tell me they’ll start networking when their business is struggling or, conversely, when things are finally on the upswing.
But I’ve noticed a pattern: the people who get the most out of networking are the ones who seem to be doing it all the time. Did they wait until they were less busy? Or is their networking strategy the very thing that makes their business so successful?
To make networking effective, you have to build it into your calendar as real work. It’s not an extra; it’s a core function of . The networking pool contains your future contacts, clients, suppliers, and advisors. It might even hold new friends and opportunities you haven’t even dreamed of yet. This isn’t about "if" you have the time. For a growing , this is where you be spending your time. Whatever your business needs right now—more clients, some solid advice, a new supplier—you can find it by talking to the right people.
Make Networking Fit Your Life
Different businesses have different rhythms. When I was a real estate agent, Monday mornings were critical for offers, and Friday afternoons were for calls from our newspaper ad. You can build networking around your schedule without feeling like you’re missing the most important parts of your day.
Many self-employed people are also juggling family commitments. If you have school runs, look for events that happen mid-day or in the evening. Take a look at your typical week and schedule networking around it. A requires smart scheduling, and this is no different. If you’re just starting out, immerse yourself in networking until a weekly pattern emerges, then work around that.
You can also make your time work twice as hard. Early in my career, my work often took me to a city a few hours away. Instead of just driving there, doing the work, and coming home, I started looking for local networking events. I was already there, paying for the gas and hotel. The only extra cost was a few hours of my time, but the potential rewards were huge. At the very least, I’d meet some interesting people and get some company for a meal.
What actually happened was that people were intrigued by someone networking so far from home. I stood out. Over time, some of those contacts became clients. It’s a form of leverage—making every hour of your day count for more than one thing. You can also invite a client to a networking event and hold your meeting right after. If they’re new to the group, you can introduce them to potential prospects, which they’ll love you for.
What to Wear and What to Bring
Preparation is key to feeling confident. Getting ready for a business networking event is no different.
Check the Dress Code
I once showed up to what I thought was a casual event in chinos and a polo shirt. I walked in to find a sea of dark suits and ties. It was mortifying. Everyone was polite, of course, but I spent the next four hours wishing I’d just called ahead to check. If you’re not sure, ask someone you know who’s going or contact the organizer.
Decide on Your Impression
Think about how you want others to see you. It takes more confidence to dress down than to dress up. A suit or professional equivalent is a safe bet that allows you to make a neutral impression. Also, consider what’s standard for your industry. A banker is expected to be in a suit; a window cleaner, not so much. Creatives like designers and writers can usually get away with a more casual look. When in doubt, start safe.
Don’t Forget Business Cards
This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people show up without them. Even in our digital world, people expect to exchange cards. If you’re serious about your , invest a little money in professionally designed and printed cards.
Bring Promotional Materials (If Appropriate)
If you have brochures, ask the organizer beforehand if there’s a designated table for them. Don’t just hand them out to everyone—it comes across as pushy. If you have a roller banner, ask if you can set it up. It can be a great static ad that reminds people who you are throughout the event.
When to Show Up
If an event is advertised to start at 8:00 a.m. with the formal portion beginning at 8:30, when should you arrive?
- Arriving a little before the official start time gives you more time for informal conversation. You can get to know people in a relaxed setting and book your one-on-one meetings early with the people you most want to talk to.
- Some people prefer to arrive just before the formal part starts. They miss the small talk, and people judge them solely on their introduction. You get less time but might have more focused interactions.
When you’re first attending a group, aim to arrive at the stated start time. After a few meetings, you’ll get a feel for the group's dynamic and can adjust your timing.
How to Handle the Nerves
I used to be incredibly nervous before networking events, and to some extent, I still am. I remember sitting in my car before my very first one, completely convinced that everyone inside would be more successful, confident, and interesting than me. My head was pounding, and I was ready to drive away and text a lame excuse.
The truth is, once I got inside, it was far more relaxed than I expected. People were welcoming. But if you’re feeling that anxiety, know that it’s completely normal. Here’s how to work with it, not against it.
Your Nerves Are an Asset
Think about the last time you were nervous. What were the physical symptoms? A churning stomach, faster heartbeat, maybe a little flushed? Now, think about the last time you were really excited. The physical symptoms are almost identical. You get to decide whether it’s nerves or excitement. That energy is what performers use on stage. It keeps you alert and energized.
A Pre-Event Checklist
Being prepared is the best cure for jitters. The night before, get these things ready:
- Business cards are in your bag.
- Your introduction is written down and rehearsed.
- Your outfit is picked out.
- Directions to the venue are ready.
- You have the organizer’s name and contact info.
- You’ve double-checked the event format and timing.
This event could be a game-changer for your . Get a good night's sleep and treat it like you’re going to meet your biggest prospect ever—because you just might be.
Making a Graceful Exit
When the meeting is over, don’t just slip out. This is your last chance to make a positive impression.
If you enjoyed the meeting, tell the organizers. They are often volunteers and will appreciate the positive feedback. If you liked the guest speaker, tell them specifically what you found valuable. Thank the people you had one-on-one meetings with and confirm how you’ll follow up.
Be the person who is remembered for being polite and engaged, not the one who just disappeared. This process also helps you leave the event reinforcing all the positive things you gained from it—not a bad way to start the rest of your day.
