Start with Hello: How to Convert Today's Stranger into Tomorrow's Client

Chapter 8

Networking at events

The richest people in the world look for and build networks; everyone else looks for work.

Robert Kiyosaki

Networking well is an art form to be perfected if you want to reap the rewards, which means spending some time learning the tips and tricks to get good at it and not alienate anyone in the process. But how do you know if it works? Ask any successful businessperson if networking works and listen to their stories about the events that have stemmed from starting with hello.

A great place to meet other people is the good old-fashioned networking event that every town has in some way, shape or form for a variety of reasons. Your local chamber of commerce or business association will put on some of these events, and some networking events are privately run groups that may connect over a specific subject such as HR or they may be organised by someone with a keen interest in connecting with others over a glass of wine.

Generally, you don’t need to be a member to join, and in fact organisations such as your local chamber of commerce would encourage non-members to come along in the hope that they decide to join them for future events and training, which they also provide. To find the events that are happening in your part of town, simply Google ‘networking events’ and the town in which you wish to attend and see what pops up. Also, check sites such as www.eventbright.com, which is a great source of networking events as well as training and seminars among ...