5 Steps to Boost Your Personal Network During Events
Although I am always happy to have a full house workshop in any event, I am even more thrilled to make amazing connections and build my personal network over there.
Networking is the top skill you should prioritize to boost your business! We say, “It’s not about what you know. It is about WHO you know.”
We, as humans, are social by nature! We love to communicate and to get along with people similar to us. Same in business, the bigger your network is, the bigger (& the more) your opportunities are!
This is me when I attended the Techne summit and delivered a workshop about the “Power of personal branding on LinkedIn”.
One major way to build a strong personal network is by going to events. But you need to do more than just attend.
Want to grow your personal network? This guide is your companion to any event:
1️⃣ Search for Event Speakers on LinkedIn
Use the event’s official website or social media to find a list of speakers. Look up each speaker individually on LinkedIn and connect with them.
But remember to send a connection request with a “personalized note” mentioning your excitement about attending the event and your interest in their topic or expertise.
But why specifically LinkedIn & not email for example?
Connecting with people through e-mail is a one-time interaction, while connecting with them on LinkedIn creates a continuous 24/7 connection. Therefore LinkedIn is important in order to stay on their radar and maintain regular engagement to strengthen the relationship.
2️⃣ Search for Relevant Event Attendees
On social media, look for attendees relevant to your interests, industry, or field. They can help you achieve your goals. Send connection requests with personalized notes. Mention why you’d like to connect and what common interests or goals you share.
You might think that sending personalized notes with details might be time-consuming. However, trust that it is a time invested not wasted!
Because building a good personal network is about “quality,” not “quantity”. Do not just go for a large (valueless) number of connections!
3️⃣ Check for Event Networking Tools
Explore the event’s official website or communication channels for any networking tools, groups, platforms, or apps they recommend. Sign up or create a profile on these platforms if available. Introduce yourself, mention your anticipation for the event, and initiate discussions or join relevant groups or forums.
4️⃣ Engage with Accepted Connections
After speakers or attendees accept your connection requests, take some time to review their profiles. Engage with their recent LinkedIn posts or articles thoughtfully and helpfully. Leave meaningful comments that add value to the conversation.
5️⃣ Initiate Conversations Ahead of the Event
Once you’ve established connections and engaged with their content, initiate private conversations. Express your excitement about meeting them at the event and inquire if they have specific goals or topics to discuss. Share your thoughts or insights related to the event’s theme.
Remember, the key to a successful personal network through events is building genuine connections and adding value to others. You can approach interactions with authenticity and a willingness to learn from and help your connections.
This will enhance your networking experience and contribute to your professional personal brand.
Once in the event, talk to everyone you have engaged with over LinkedIn.
Bonus Step
Follow Up with the New Members of your Personal Network
After making new connections or attending a networking event, be sure to follow up with a personalized message or email. This will help you stay top-of-mind and build stronger relationships.
Following up helps to build and maintain relationships with your connections. It shows that you are interested in developing a connection and that you value their time and effort.
Congratulations, you have built an excellent professional personal network now!
Finally, Here Are Two Immediate Ways I Can Help You Today.
1️⃣ If you want to learn more about personal branding, here are some quick online courses to put you on the right track quickly & help you boost your personal network as an automatic result!
2️⃣ Do you want to start making money on LinkedIn? Here is my “LinkedIn Influence and Income” online consultancy program. Book your slot here to tailor this program for you!
