25 Essential Conference Networking Tips

I’m not an expert networker.  I’m sort of shy about approaching people and often worry about saying the wrong thing in conversation. I try to portray confidence, but the truth is, I’m not always confidnet in my ability.

I practice though. As a freelancer I knew I needed to meet the right kind of people to get my career going as opposed to relying solely on the online world. I started attending local professional events and even became president of a local woman’s group in order to expand my career. The networking on a local level helped me to be more confident as I began attending conferences.

Now, I network for other reasons – to find speakers for my own conference, evangelize to potential attendees, and spread the word about my book – but the methods I use remain the same.

I’ve been told I’m a good networker, but I don’t know if that’s true. The truth is, I enjoy talking with people and I love making new friends, and that’s how I approach networking even if I’m at a professional event.

If you poll a room filled with conference attendees about why they’re there, the top reason will most likely be to network. However, it’s my experience too many people feel being professional means being stiff and business-like.  Worse, too many people feel networking is selling. It’s neither being stiff or smarmy. Rather, networking is a way to meet other people and determine if they’re right for your business, collaboration,  or friendship.

Click Here are some of my rules for successful networking.  When you’re done reading, I hope you’ll let us know if you agree or disagree with any of these, or offer your own tips for networking.