Tips for Building Connections at Professional Events

Mike Sellers used to do an annual guide to GDC for his students and other first-time goers. I looked all over for it this weekend, but I couldn’t find a link. Like everything Mike did, it was thorough, well written, and insightful. I can’t hope to provide anything nearly as detailed, but my top tips: — Don’t be afraid to walk out of a session if it’s not working for you. I usually stay to the back and outside, just in case. Your time is too valuable to spend not learning or connecting. — The corollary is to always have a backup session in mind. If you bail early enough, you might be able to make another session that’s more useful. — Don’t interrupt a good conversation to go to a session. All of the lectures will be available on the vault. Round tables happen multiple times. If you’re getting value out of the tangential interactions, prioritize those; you can’t make them happen other places. — Reach out to the people around you in the dead times. Don’t interrupt; don’t insert yourself into a conversation; don’t disturb someone who’s trying to focus, but there is plenty of time in lines or in the lobby or waiting for a room to fill to strike up a conversation. — Ask more questions; talk less. Don’t ask for anything. Everyone enjoys being an expert, so ask them about what they do, how they do it, what they’ve learned about it at GDC. If you are curious and undemanding, very, very few people will turn you away. — Always have business cards and a pen. After you talk to someone and do the business card dance, write down what you talked to them about on the card. This will help you to have focused follow ups after the conference. — Do not overindulge. This is a professional event, not a party. Parties tend to be the least valuable time; they are loud; there is often music. Stay alert because there are always people around trying to take advantage of the vulnerable. Look out for each other, and don’t hesitate to tell the bartender if you see anything suspicious. — Have an answer ready for “so, what do you do?” Keep it short; no one needs your life story, but make it clear why you’re there - are you there to learn? To find a job? To hire? To land a publishing deal? Give people an opportunity to connect you. Don’t expect them to have anything for you. — Stay safe. Most people are at GDC to learn and grow, but there have always been incidents. Have a buddy or a group when you go out. Keep track of what’s going on around you. Don’t leave anyone behind. Ask for help if things start going sideways. It’s a sad reality, but you have to be alert. The thing I love about GDC is that it’s the one time every year we get together to help each other. Making games is hard. In most industries, they hide their secrets because it’s the only way to stay competitive. In games, we share ours because it’s the only way to progress. If you’re going this year, I’m flat out jealous. Enjoy the opportunity and be excellent to each other.

Association meetings aren't just events; they're gold mines for opportunities waiting to be discovered. But here's the catch: these chances don't just fall into your lap; you've got to be in it to win it. Being present in your community, genuinely engaging with others, offering a helping hand, and letting your true self shine through—this is how you lay the groundwork for those unforeseen options that could skyrocket your career. Think about it. If people don't get the chance to know, like, and trust you, you're off their radar when opportunities pop up. Your future success hinges on what you do today. So, here’s a challenge: pick two business groups related to your field, either local or national trade associations. Dive into every event they offer, both online and in person. The goal? To not just show up, but follow up. Connect with the folks you meet, sing the group's praises on your social media, and genuinely invest in these relationships. Be active for a year or two. The aim is to bring at least one or two people into your inner circle. Because, let's be real, having a genuine connection with someone is infinitely more valuable than a thousand LinkedIn contacts you barely know. This isn't about collecting names; it's about building real, meaningful connections. Invest in people, and the opportunities will follow. It’s a simple equation that could make a significant difference in your career. Let’s make those interactions count and watch as doors start opening in ways you never imagined. If you work in Austin in or around "tech"...maybe check out the Austin Technology Council. You can start by going to the April 24th breakfast. Or the May breakfast. And you can get involved with the Austin Tech Hall of Fame event in June. I am happy to help you connect within ATC. As we reshape the organization, we need the real civic minded leaders to engage and share their ideas. #associations #tradeassociations #networking #careersuccess

Founders, VCs, and job-searching friends: remember that what you're looking for is only one (1) introduction away. This can be an investor, investment, employer, business partner, etc. Some tips I use any time I'm in a #networking type of event. 1) Arrive early and stay late - those interactions when there are fewer people are often the most personal and impactful. Depending on the venue, aim to be there ~15-20 min before and after the event. 2) Meet the host - make sure to introduce yourself to the host and ask if they'd recommend you speak to anyone given your background. Remember, they know everyone and can streamline your networking process significantly. 3) Move fast - don't spend >10 minutes talking to one person. People understand that the goal is to meet as many people as possible, so be on the move. Practice ways to gracefully enter and exit conversations. Remember the goal is not to get a job or investor, but simply to get a second conversation. 4) Don't wait in lines - get really good at jumping into conversations instead of waiting in a line to talk to someone. Laugh at a joke, contribute with a nod, or "wow, completely agree." People will adjust and make room for you. It's like when we were in middle school and two people are moving the jumprope--you can't sit on the sidelines, you have to pick your moment, not overthink it, and jump right in. 5) Be memorable (but don't be weird) - nail down your 30, 60, and 90 second elevator pitch. When someone asks what you do or where you're from, have an answer that goes beyond what you're asked. Thread your answer with things they could connect with. 6) Follow up - ideally within 24 hours, 48 hours max. Connect on LinkedIn/email/carrier pigeon and add some context. Remind them about something you talked about or one thing you learned from them. Not only will that help them remember you, but it will also serve as a reminder the next time you're scrolling through your messages and wondering how you first met. Any others I missed? Have you come across anything that worked surprisingly well? If so, please comment below!

How do you feel when you walk in a room full of strangers? Are you excited by the idea of making new connections, or does the thought send you to the nearest exit? In my journey, I’ve navigated tough waters of networking events, armed with nothing but a purse full of business cards. Gone are the days of awkwardly exchanging pleasantries and doing small talk. Today, networking is about forging meaningful relationships and providing value—it's not merely about expanding your digital Rolodex. Transfer your networking dread and into networking know-how with these practical tips that won’t have you running out the door:  👊 Show Genuine Interest. Ditch the rehearsed lines. Engage in conversations about the other person’s projects, their passions, or even their pets (I love sharing stories about my pup, CoCo). Genuine curiosity is the ultimate networking tool. 👊 Focus on Quality. Networking isn’t a race to collect the most cards - it’s about building substantial relationships and remaining attentive. Stacy Silver, ISHC, a networking expert, advises to “be present and keep your phone away” to enhance active listening and engagement. Catch more of her insights during her interview with David Kong on DEI Advisors. 👊 Personalize Your Follow-Up: Make your follow-up memorable. Mention specific details like, “I loved hearing about your safari last summer!” When sending a LinkedIn invite, personalize your message to remind them of your interaction, sparing them the guesswork of where you met. 👊 Be a Connector: Introduce your new acquaintance to someone else at the event, or mimic the King and Queen of Networking, Stuart Greif and Rachel Humphrey, and craft a thoughtful email introduction that highlights mutual interests, giving both parties a compelling reason to connect. 👊 Lighten Up - A little humor goes a long way and breaking the ice. Feel free to tell appropriate jokes while remembering to know your audience. Whether your networking novice or seasonal schmoozer, remember every room full of strangers presents potential friends and collaborators. Maybe with a bit of smart networking, your next big opportunity could be waiting for you over a casual chat and a glass of wine at your next conference. What’s your best networking practical tip? Share your insights below! #networking #professionaldevelopment #coaching Pinnacle Enterprises Group | Executive Coaching & Hospitality Consulting

Are you looking to grow professionally through networking? Here are some expert tips to help guide your efforts: 1. Start by defining your objectives. Determine your goals before expanding your network. Having clear objectives will guide your networking efforts. 2. Focus on clarity when communicating with others. Avoid trying to impress with jargon or titles. Instead, focus on being understood quickly and easily. 3. Prioritize building relationships over collecting business cards. Add value to your network by asking how you can support others. This fosters trust and mutual support. 4. Help your network connect with each other. Introduce contacts who can benefit from each other's services or expertise. This adds value to your network and strengthens relationships. 5. Attend events that genuinely interest you, rather than just following the crowd. This allows you to be yourself and engage more authentically. Especially if you have a limited budget. 6. Networking is not just an event; it's a mindset. Be interested in others, ask powerful questions, and listen deeply. This approach helps build trust and lasting connections. 7. Schedule regular touch-base calls or meetings with contacts. This keeps relationships fresh and helps you support each other's work and career development. 8. Instead of focusing on what people do, get to know their motivations and passions. This deeper understanding can lead to more meaningful connections and longer lasting relationships. 9. Have a plan when attending networking events. Know who you want to meet and what you hope to gain from the event. This preparation can increase your chances of success. Pre-event planning. 10. Be attuned to the body language and vocal delivery of others. This awareness can help you interpret their intent and respond appropriately. 11. After networking, follow up with new contacts. Keep your promises and maintain the momentum of your relationships. Deliver some complimentary tips, ideas or recommendations. Remember, networking is a skill that requires time, effort, and patience. Building a strong professional network is an ongoing process that can open doors to new opportunities and enrich your professional and personal life.

In a world where your online profile could be your first handshake, the age-old art of in-person networking can feel like a lost relic. Yet, there’s an undeniable magic in the live, human connection that no digital interface can replicate. So, when you're stepping into the arena of face-to-face networking, how do you harness that magic effectively? Let’s break down the strategic play into clear, actionable tactics for making a lasting impact. Invent a Signature Ice-Breaker: Create an engaging question or share an interesting anecdote that’s personal and reflective of your interests. Rehearse it enough so that it feels natural, allowing you to deliver it with confidence and ease. Enter with Purpose: Clarify your intentions before the event. Are you there to find new clients, potential partners, or maybe to scout for new talent? With every handshake and introduction, have a clear objective in mind to drive the conversation. Ask with Precision: Arm yourself with well-thought-out questions that are relevant to current industry trends and individual expertise. Aim to get deeper insights by asking for examples and experiences, not just surface-level information. Listen Actively: Show genuine interest in responses, maintaining eye contact and responsive body language. Build on their replies with thoughtful, engaging follow-up questions. Exchange Value: Go into every conversation with the mindset of what you can offer them—an idea, a connection, or even just an interesting conversation. True networking is reciprocal; aim to provide value in every exchange. Connect and Follow Up: Whether you prefer a classic business card or a digital link, have your contact information readily accessible. Cement new connections with a personalized follow-up message within a day of the meeting. With these tactics in your arsenal, you’re ready to turn every networking opportunity into a strategic stepping stone for your professional journey. Remember, it’s the quality of the connections, not just the quantity, that builds a robust network.

Are your networking convos going nowhere?  Then, you are likely not asking the right questions at the end of the chat. So let me fix this for ya. Here are my favorite end-of-chit-chat questions to make sure you keep the new connections moving forward. ⭐ Expanding Your Network: "Based on our conversation, who else would you recommend I speak with to gain further insights into this field?" ⭐ Gaining Deeper Industry Insight: "Are there any groups, associations, or forums you think I should join to connect with other professionals in this field?" ⭐ Understanding Company Culture: "Who in your organization has been pivotal to your understanding of the company culture, and might they be open to a discussion?" ⭐ Exploring Opportunities: "In your opinion, which companies or teams are doing exciting work in this space that I should explore further?" ⭐ Finding Mentors and Advisors: "I'm interested in finding a mentor in the field. Is there someone whose career path you admire and who might be open to a mentorship conversation?" ⭐ Learning About Roles and Functions: "Which colleagues of yours have taken interesting paths or roles that you think I could learn from?" ⭐ Asking for Introductions: "Would you be comfortable introducing me to anyone in your network who you think could provide additional perspective on my job search?" ⭐ Keeping the Conversation Going: "What events or meetups would you suggest I attend to meet like-minded professionals in this industry?" ⭐ Following Industry Developments: "Are there any upcoming industry events or webinars that you think would be beneficial for someone in my position to attend?" ⭐ Staying in Touch: "How can I best keep in touch with you as I continue exploring this field and potentially seek your advice again in the future?" So...will you use these banging questions in your next networking chat? Then drop a "YEAH" Lil Jon style in the comments below. #networking #networkingtips

Build a network you can count on! H7 Network has taught me the value of platform. We always talk about "Having an audience, not being in the audience". Here are some tips mindset we frame for our networking community. Connect: Building a genuine connection with the person you're meeting. This could involve a warm greeting, a brief mention of common interests or acquaintances, or simply showing interest in their background. Be approachable and open-minded. Approach the meeting with a mindset of learning from the other person and valuing their perspective. Serve: Before diving into your own needs or goals, ask questions and actively listen to understand the other person's needs and goals. Offer help or support without expecting immediate reciprocity. Generosity and willingness to assist others can foster positive relationships in networking. Ask: After establishing a connection and demonstrating your willingness to be of service, you can then ask for what you need or desire. Be clear and concise in your request. Tailor your request to align with the relationship you've built. If you've already offered help or support, it's more likely the other person will reciprocate. Follow Up: After the meeting, follow up with a thank-you note or message to express your appreciation for their time and the insights gained. This reinforces the positive impression you've made. If you've offered assistance, follow through on your promises promptly. This demonstrates reliability and trustworthiness. Be Genuine: Authenticity is key. Be yourself and don't pretend to be someone you're not. Authenticity builds trust and makes networking interactions more meaningful. Avoid appearing transactional. Networking is about building relationships, not just about what you can get from others. Respect Time: Be mindful of the other person's time during the meeting. Keep the conversation on track and avoid monopolizing the discussion. If you have a specific time limit for the meeting, make that clear from the outset. Prepare Elevator Pitch: Have a concise and engaging elevator pitch ready that introduces yourself and your interests. This can help in the initial phase of the conversation. Listen Actively: Pay close attention to what the other person is saying. This not only shows respect but also allows you to identify opportunities where you can be of service or where your needs align. Stay Professional: Maintain a professional demeanor throughout the meeting. This includes dressing appropriately, using proper language, and being courteous. Reflect and Learn: After the networking meeting, take some time to reflect on what went well and what could have been improved. Continuously learn from your experiences to refine your networking skills. Remember, networking is a long-term endeavor, and building genuine relationships takes time and effort. "Connect, Serve, Ask" is a framework that can help you approach networking meetings with a balanced and effective strategy.

Feeling awkward at in-person networking events? Here are 5 tips to improve your effectiveness. 1. Research the companies attending Search YouTube for recent interviews. Look for interviews with the founder, execs, and investors. Learn how they speak about their product and customers. Learn what they care about, their roadmap, and their mission. Do a quick Google search and read any recent stories. Become the de facto expert on each of the companies. 2. Research the speakers Look them up on LinkedIn and X. See if they have posted content recently. Read and engage with that content. Send them a connection request and email. Ask them a specific question you're curious to learn the answer to. Share that you're attending the event. Share that you would love to ask the question in person. Make it clear: - You know who they are - You know what they do - You think they're awesome 3. Set a goal to make a connection with 4 or 5 people The sea of hundreds of people can be intimidating. So, set a goal to just meet a few. This low bar allows you to invest time into each conversation. The deeper you go, the more likely they'll be to reconnect after. 4. Instead of fumbling with contact details, use LinkedIn A little-known feature of LinkedIn is the QR code. Click the search bar. Click the QR code icon on the right side of the bar. Let the person you're speaking with scan your QR code. Now, you are connected on LinkedIn. 5. Record the sessions I hate when I can't remember something a speaker said. Record the session so you don't miss anything. You can use tools like WaveApp to record, transcribe, and summarize. Use the transcription to create content or to use the speaker's own quotes in outreach to them. 6. Don't pass up a photo opportunity It might sound weird but photos are powerful. One big reason I landed an internship out of college was due to a photo. If you meet someone and the vibe is right, snap a photo. I stress **the vibe is right**. Use it when sending a message to reconnect. It reminds them of who you are and when/where you met. What other in-person networking tips do folks have? Will I see you at the Initialized Capital Startup Talent Summit tomorrow? Let me know in the comments below. --------------------------- If you liked this list, follow me Kyle Thomas + hit the 🔔 for more. ♻ Share this post to help startup job seekers find their next role.

How to network without being “salesly” (And build genuine relationships) — Networking is hands down one of the most underrated aspects of business. A network built on reciprocity is also one of the BIGGEST assets any founder can call upon 10 tips to grow yours the RIGHT way: 1. Offer help first When reaching out to someone, think about how you can help them before asking for anything in return. This can be through introductions, sharing resources, or providing insights to a post of theirs. The goal is to leave no doubt that you’re not just a “taker” but a “giver”. — 2. Acknowledge milestones It might not mean much to you, but any personal milestone is HUGE inside for someone in your network. - Job changes - Work anniversaries - Professional accomplishments. Show that you CARE about their journey. — 3. Personalized connection requests (I know you’re sick of these fake connect requests as much as I am…) So show some personalization! Mention how you found them, why you want to connect, and a specific common interest or goal. It’s the little extra efforts like this that separate you from others. (p.s. “Let’s find synergies” is making you look like you’re spamming) — 4. Regularly update your LinkedIn profile Keep it current with your: - Skills - Projects - Latest achievements A well-maintained profile makes it easier for people to understand your professional background… Which makes it easier for them to relate to you when you speak. — 5. Open your network to others I’m ALWAYS looking for opportunities to introduce my connections to each other. This not only helps them, but it also strengthens your position as a valuable connector. If you be the person who helps build relationships… They’ll remember you for it. — 6. Follow up Stay in touch with your contacts regularly to maintain your relationships. You don’t have to do this daily or even weekly… But a little check-in here and there goes a long way in showing you care. — 7. Organize networking events Host your own networking events or small meet-ups. (In person or through Zoom) This is another great way to be a connector. Strong networking skills involve being able to bring people together in a meaningful way. — [BONUS] - Become the go-to guy in groups Underrated hack: join LinkedIn groups related to your industry or interests. While in the group… - Share your expertise - Be active in discussions - Connect with group members There’s nothing like chatting with like-minded people. (And most people don’t do it). — By implementing these strategies consistently, you will build authentic and meaningful relationships. The goal is to cultivate and build a network that supports and grows with you. What’s your biggest struggle in terms of networking? — Found value in this? Repost ♻️ to share to your network and follow Ignacio Carcavallo for more!