4 Networking Event Tips to Help You Make the Most of It

4 Networking Event Tips to Help You Make the Most of It4 Networking Event Tips to Help You Make the Most of ItNo matter what career youre in, or how far up the corporate ladder youve climbed, therbeie is one component of job growth that pretty much everyone needs to master- the art of networking. The term networking can mean many things, from keeping in touch with former colleagues to attending actual events that are meant to connect like-minded workers.Whatever form of networking were talking about, though, the fact remains that this type of connection can often be intimidating and nerve-wracking. Putting a little thought into and developing a plan or strategy can help take the edge off at the next networking event.Here are a few key things to keep in mind the next time a networking event opportunity arises1. Arrive prepped with your elevator pitch.If youll be attending an actual networking event in the near future, it helps to take some time beforehand to go over your resume and ru n through your top achievements so that you can be ready to list them off at a moments notice.When it comes to those achievements, the more specific you can be, the better. If you brought in a new account worth a certain amount of money at your last job, or successfully launched a campaign that garnered however many new users, be sure to have those exact numbers on hand so you can spout them off to all those sure-to-be-impressed co-networkers.2. Store copies of your resume and business cards close by.Nothing says, Im not prepared more than showing up to a networking event without the essentials- meaning copies of your resume and business card. You can have the best conversation with a head honcho and leave her desperate for a further connection by spouting off all your hard-earned successes, but if you have to write your contact information down on a napkin with a pen you borrowed from her because you didnt have a resume or business card on hand, that will likely be the lasting memo ry she has of your meeting.3. Keep your cool.Even if walking into a room full of people is your worst nightmare, try your best to stay calm and relaxed. Prepping ahead of time with the two steps mentioned above will help, since its easier to stay relaxed when you know youre as prepared as possible, but if thats not enough, take a little extra time throughout the day before your event to do the things that you know put you at ease, like going for a run, getting a massage, grabbing a coffee with a friend, or even taking a nap.4. Have a follow-up plan.Dont leave it to the people you meet at networking events to follow up with you regarding potential possibilities, have a plan to follow up with them yourself. Even if someone doesnt get contact information from you, if you think you could be an asset to them, ask for their contact information and set a reminder to follow up with them in a week to suggest a coffee meeting to further discuss how you might be able to help them achieve their work-related goals.Even if youre already in a job you love, its still important to use professional networks to your benefit. To that end, here are five types of professional networks, and the best ways to use them. For more on general networking, check out these five must-ask networking questions to keep in mind, as well asthis piece for five networking tips for generation Z.Know someone looking for a job? Refer a friend to with this link- youll get a month free service and theyll get 30% off