Networking for Newbie Speakers

Preparing for the Networking Event

Before you even set  foot in the event venue, there’s some crucial prep work to be done. Here’s how to lay the groundwork for networking success:

Know Your Audience

Researching the event and attendees beforehand is key. Check out the event website, social media pages, and any available attendee lists. Get a feel for who’s going to be there and what they’re interested in. This intel will help you tailor your approach and make more meaningful connections.

Set Your Intentions

What do you hope to gain from this event? Is it to land more speaking gigs, find potential collaborators? Or simply expand your professional network? Get clear on your goals and write them down. Having a specific intention will help you stay focused and make the most of your time.

Craft a Compelling Elevator Pitch

Another thing you need to have nailed before you arrive is your elevator pitch. You never know when you’ll have the chance to share what you do with a potential client or collaborator. That’s where your little 30-second pitch comes in – a brief, impactful statement that sums up who you are, what you do, and why it matters.

Here’s what you need to do when crafting yours:

• Keep it concise (30 seconds or less)
• Highlight your unique value proposition
• Share the transformation you provide
• Include a clear call-to-action
• Practice, practice, practice!

Remember, your elevator pitch is a conversation starter, not a comprehensive biography. Focus on the most compelling aspects of your speaking business and the value you bring to your clients. Craft a few variations of your pitch to suit different audiences and contexts. And don’t be afraid to inject some personality and humor – after all, you want to leave a lasting impression!

Making the Most of the Event

Alright, you’ve done your prep work – now it’s time to shine! Here’s how to navigate the event like a networking ninja:

Arrive Early and Stay Late

Want to know a secret? Some of the best networking happens before the official start time and after the last session wraps up. Arriving early and staying late gives you a chance to connect with other speakers, organizers, and attendees in a more relaxed setting.

Harness The Power of Body Language

Your non-verbal cues speak volumes. Smile, make eye contact, and maintain an open, approachable posture. Avoid crossing your arms, staring at your phone, or hiding in the corner. Remember, you’re there to connect with people, not the wallpaper!

Use The Art of Active Listening

Networking isn’t just about talking – it’s also about listening. Show genuine interest in the people you meet. Ask questions, listen attentively, and look for ways to add value to the conversation. When you make others feel heard and appreciated, they’ll be more likely to remember you and want to connect further.

Engage in Genuine Conversations

Forget the sleazy sales pitch – focus on building authentic relationships. Ask open-ended questions, find common ground, and share your own experiences and insights. Remember, networking is about planting seeds, not closing deals on the spot.

One of the best ways to make a lasting impression is by being genuinely helpful. If someone mentions a challenge they’re facing or a resource they need, offer your support or expertise. Even if it’s just a small gesture, it can go a long way in building goodwill and establishing yourself as a valuable connection.

Collecting Contact Information

Don’t leave the event empty-handed! Make sure to collect business cards or connect on social media with the people you meet. Jot down notes about your conversation on the back of their card – this will come in handy when you follow up later.

Following Up After the Event

Congrats, you survived the event! But your work isn’t done yet. The real magic happens in the follow-up. Here’s how to keep the momentum going:

Send Personalized Follow-Up Messages

Within 24-48 hours of the event, reach out to the people you connected with. Send a personalized email or LinkedIn message, referencing something specific from your conversation. This shows that you were paying attention and value the connection.

Here are my do’s and don’ts for follow-ups:

• DO: Keep it brief and friendly
• DO: Provide value (share a relevant article, resource, or introduction)
• DON’T: Ask for favors right off the bat
• DON’T: Be overly salesy or pushy

Connect on Social Media

LinkedIn is your best friend when it comes to professional networking. Connect with the people you met and engage with their content. Like, comment, and share their posts – this helps keep you top of mind and strengthens the relationship over time.

Nurture Relationships Through Ongoing Communication

Networking is a long game. Don’t just reach out when you need something – make an effort to stay in touch regularly. Send a quick message to check in, share an update on your speaking journey, or offer congratulations on a recent achievement.

Seek Opportunities to Collaborate or Refer

As you build stronger relationships with your network, look for ways to collaborate or refer business to one another. Maybe you can co-host a webinar, guest post on each other’s blogs, or recommend each other for speaking gigs. When you support others, they’ll be more likely to support you in return.

Mastering the Art of Networking for Newbie Speakers

Okay, that was a lot of networking knowledge we’ve just worked through! But trust me, it will all be worth it. By implementing these strategies consistently, you’ll build a robust network of supporters, collaborators, and cheerleaders who will help you take your speaking career to new heights.

Remember, networking is not about collecting business cards or making superficial small talk. It’s about building genuine relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and value. So, approach each event with an open mind, a giving heart, and a willingness to learn from others.

Now, go out there and network like a pro! Your dream gigs, collaborations, and opportunities await. And when you land that big break, be sure to come back and share your success story with me.

In the meantime, don’t forget we’ve got a ton of helpful speaking resources on the Charli Jane website and a network of 16,000+ fellow speakers to bounce ideas off of in our Breakthrough Public Speakers group.