Global PA Association is known amongst many other qualities, for organizing networking events for PAs and we understand that networking events are part of the life of a corporate worker, and planning to attend them can be quite tough. The idea of being in a room with numerous people meeting themselves for the first time, striking up a conversation, and holding a conversation for some time can be difficult to deal with.

Hence, we have noted down some useful tips on how to show up and make your presence memorable with good conversations at networking events.

Secondly, during the event, here are some ideas on how to navigate your way smoothly through conversations:

·      If you are nervous, speaking with individuals first rather than a group of people may be best. This will help you start building momentum and getting into the element.

·      Do not focus on sweeping through the crowd in an attempt to speak to every attendee. It is better to speak to a few people with a specific target than everyone and in the end, no deep conversation with anyone because of short-timed discussions.

·      Endeavour to begin conversations with an introduction. Make sure to introduce yourself boldly, briefly with only important details of your name, role, organization, and other interesting details about your career plans. Keep it cheerful and brief as your introduction may open doors for more discussion.

·      When discussing with people, ask questions about their jobs, roles, and career ladder interests. Make it as engaging as possible. It is usually positive when people perceive you are interested in their professional history.

·      Do not start pitching for an opportunity at the event, however, where you see how a person may be helpful to you, you can engage them to tell you more about those areas. Tell them it is an interesting field for you and you will like to learn more from their experiences. After the event, when you have built more than a surface rapport with them, is a better time to pitch.

·      When there seems to be nothing left to discuss and you do not know how to end conversations, you can politely say you’d love to let them go ahead and interact with other people. You could also introduce them to someone else you think they would like to speak to. This is also a good time to exchange contact details or cards.

Thirdly, after any networking event, take a moment to think of how the event went and consider a follow-up on those important conversations you had. Keep in mind to reach out to the identified contacts within 48 to 72 hours after the event. You can either send them a mail or connect with them on platforms like LinkedIn, depending on the nature of your conversations, you may even arrange a physical meeting with them.

Happy Networking!



*Global PA Association*

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