What to Bring to Networking Events for Maximum Impact

In a world where every executive has a firm handshake and a stack of business cards, how do you become the person everyone remembers after a conference? After attending dozens in the past decade, I've developed a strategy that transforms conferences from transactional meetups into relationship goldmines. ♟️Pre-Conference LinkedIn Strategy The real networking begins weeks before the event. Review the speaker and attendee lists, then connect with key individuals on LinkedIn with a personalized message: "I noticed we’re both attending the Stand & Deliver event. I'd love to connect. See you soon." This pre-conference connection creates a warm introduction and significantly increases your chances of meaningful engagement. 👗👔The Memorable Wardrobe Element In my early career, I blended in at conferences. Now? I'm known for wearing a little more color (often D&S Executive Career Management teal) or patterns that are professional yet distinctive. When someone says, "Oh, you're the one with the great dress," you've already won half the networking battle. 🤝Contribute Before You Collect** Instead of collecting business cards, focus on providing immediate value in conversations. Can you connect someone to a resource? Share relevant research? Offer a solution to a challenge they mentioned? The executives who stand out aren't those who take the most cards—they're the ones who solve problems on the spot. What networking approach has worked for you at recent conferences? Share in the comments below! #ExecutiveLeadership #NetworkingStrategy #ConferenceSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment

Twenty years ago, early in my business development career, I learned a lesson I’ll never forget. It wasn’t an easy one to hear, but it shaped how I show up to every conversation, meeting, and networking moment to this day. Here’s what happened: Someone I respected—a big name in the industry—was telling people, “I don’t like meeting with Julie because she doesn’t have anything for me.” Ouch. 🤕 I found out because someone in my network (who thankfully did love me) gave me a heads-up. And while it stung like hell, they were right. I wasn’t bringing anything to the table. That experience taught me one of the most important lessons in networking and business: You can’t come to the table empty-handed. Networking isn’t about just showing up and asking for favors. It’s about adding value and creating an exchange that benefits everyone involved. Now, before you panic, listen up: You always have something to bring to the table. Even if you don’t think you do. Here’s how to show up with value, even when you’re not sure what you have to offer: Share useful information: Maybe you read an article, listened to a podcast, or heard something industry-specific that they might find helpful. Bring that to the conversation. Offer possibilities Think about who you know that they should know. Offer to make an introduction or suggest a connection that could benefit them. Ask really good questions Sometimes, the value you bring is curiosity. A thoughtful question can spark ideas or help someone see a situation differently. Provide leads or insights Sure, a referral is great if you have one, but it doesn’t have to be that specific. Maybe you’ve heard about a project or opportunity that might align with their work. The truth is, people want to meet with those who offer something meaningful, whether that’s information, connections, or even just an engaging conversation. Even though that feedback 20 years ago stung, I’m incredibly grateful for it. It forced me to shift my mindset and be intentional about how I show up for others. So, the next time you’re walking into a 1:1 meeting, think about this: 👉What can I bring to the table today? Because networking isn’t about showing up with your hands out. It’s about showing up with something to give. Cheers to you bringing your best! 🙌 Julie P.S. What’s the hardest networking or business lesson you’ve ever learned? Hit that comment button and let me know, I’d love to hear your story!

Most people tell you to network, but they don’t teach you how. Here’s what you can do: 🔹 Quality Over Quantity: Before attending, study the event's attendee list and identify 2-3 people you want to meet. This focused approach can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. I’ve recently done this myself at a TED event. 🔹 Adopt a Giving Mindset: Offer to share your expertise or resources. For example, if someone is working on a project you have experience with, volunteer to provide insights or introduce them to someone who can help. This shows you're invested in their success. 🔹 Research Smartly: Look into their recent projects or publications. If your contact has recently published a paper or given a talk, read it and mention specific points you found intriguing or valuable. This demonstrates genuine interest and sets you apart. 🔹 Make the First Move: Send a message acknowledging a challenge they mentioned in a public forum or LinkedIn comment. For example: "Hi [Name], I saw your post about the challenges of remote team management. I've faced similar issues and found that regular virtual coffee breaks helped. Would love to share more if you're interested. Best, [Your Name]" 🔹 Build a Habit: Set a weekly reminder to engage with your network on social media. This could be liking, commenting on, or sharing posts from your contacts. Regular engagement keeps you top of mind and builds a foundation for deeper connections. Tomorrow’s newsletter is packed with actionable insights to turn casual contacts into valuable connections. ➡ Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/eE-aFmFy 💜 Career Well-being is the best work-life newsletter, according to my readers! Join us! #NetworkingTips #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #careerbutterfly #CareerWellbeing