How to Get the Most Out of a Networking Event

How to Get the Most Out of a Networking Event

Networking allows people to meet others while growing their business. If you are running your own business, it’s not just a good idea – it’s a must. While there are plenty of Pittsburgh networking events to attend each week, you should have a plan to get the most of the meetings you attend.

Before Each Networking Event
Have a concrete strategy of who you’d like to see and what you’d like to talk about. Check social media to see who plans to attend. Lots of networking events are now set up as Facebbok events, where people can say that they’re interested in going or definitely want to attend. If there’s someone you’d like to connect with and you now have a heads up that they’ll be there, you can plan to meet.

At the Networking Event

Some shows will have a list of members who are attending, while other are more casual. Sit down next to someone you haven’t talked to before and introduce yourself and your business. It’s a great idea to talk about your business in terms that offer a solution. For example: “I own an event planning company. We help businesses throw elegant events and big parties, and I take care of every detail so that you don’t have to worry about it.”

When it comes time for your 30-second commercial in front of everyone, talk about the work that you have done for people you already know in the room, so others can ask them about your business.

After the Event

Once the event is over, scan all of your business cards in your CRM system and follow up by connecting with them on LinkedIn. Also, send them a quick email asking if they’d like to meet to learn more about your business, and let them know that you want to hear about their business, too.

How Do You Find Pittsburgh Networking Events?

Join a few business chambers, and they will let you know when and where events are held. The Pittsburgh Business Show website also lists upcoming events on the calendar on their Events page. Most people who are growing their Pittsburgh business try to attend at least one networking event every week, and usually go to ones that are hosted during different times of the day so that they can meet different people.

The annual Pittsburgh Business Show, the region’s largest B2B event, is returning to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on April 25-26, 2018. This event features speaker workshops and presentations, networking events, and hundreds of exhibitors. The Show will provide small business owners with the tools and resources they’ll need to grow their business. To find out more and purchase tickets in advance, visit www.PittsburghBusinessShow.com.