How to Behave at a Professional Networking Event

Keep in mind:

Networking is a mutually beneficial interaction
Remember that mindset matters, remain positive
A network is a relationship

Do:

Be prepared, bring resumes, business cards, pen, and paper
Research the attendees and speakers beforehand
Set goals and create a schedule for presentations and panels
Anticipate rejection

Source 1 Source 2

Be genuine and be yourself
Be respectful and courteous
Be outgoing and sociable
Smile and be approachable, make eye contact and have open body language
Be present, show interest in who you are talking to
Dress well
Eat and drink moderately
Build trust with potential contacts before asking for favors
Be concise and direct when asking for favors
End conversations on a genuine and positive note, "it was great talking to you"
Ask for and give business cards
Send out emails to new contacts within a few days after

Do Not:

Say yes to everything, it is okay to say no
Do all the talking
Interrupt
Discuss religion or politics
Act like a know it all
Expect favors to be recriprocated immediately
Be on your phone instead of present with people
Drink too much or be sloppy

By: Laura Miller

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