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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
  • 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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