Let’s be honest, networking isn’t easy. If you love walking into a room full of strangers and striking up conversations, please teach the rest of us your ways. For most people, networking comes with a healthy mix of nerves, overthinking, and a very strong urge to stand near the snack table and avoid eye contact.
I still remember my very first networking event. I walked in with self-doubt and an immense amount of anxiety. Who do I talk to? What do I say? Does my shirt match these pants? My body was in full fight-or-flight mode, and turning around to go home felt very tempting. But I’ve learned that sometimes you have to be uncomfortable once so it’s a little less uncomfortable the next time.
Over the years, I’ve realized that networking doesn’t have to feel like high-pressure performance or an awkward sales pitch. It can actually be enjoyable. Here are four tips that have helped me make networking less awkward and maybe even a little fun.
1. Set Small, Realistic Goals
Instead of trying to meet everyone in the room, aim to connect with two or three people. Focus on quality over quantity. One meaningful conversation will always beat ten rushed ones, and it takes the pressure way down.
Remember: You don’t need to leave with a pocket full of business cards for the night to be a success.
2. Have a Few Go-To Conversation Starters
Forget the elevator pitch. Start with something simple, personal, or lighthearted. A few easy conversation starters include:
· “What’s your favorite part of your role?”
· “What’s your go-to lunch spot in the city?”
Questions like these spark genuine conversations and make things feel more natural and far less forced. If the conversation goes off topic at some point, that normally a good sign.
3. Listen More Than You Talk
Listening shows respect, builds trust, and helps conversations flow naturally. When we are too focused on what to say next, we miss opportunities to truly connect and learn something new. One thing I’ve learned is that people always remember how you made them feel.
4. Don’t Let the Connection End at the Event
If you made a meaningful connection, follow up. Send a quick message within a few days, whether it’s to grab coffee, continue a conversation, or simply say it was great meeting them. Networking isn’t a one-time thing. It’s about building relationships over time.
Final Thoughts
Networking may never feel completely effortless, but it does get easier with practice. Start small and focus on being yourself! You never know. The person you meet at the next event could become a mentor, a collaborator, or even a friend.
Ready to put these tips into action? Join us at the next KW Chamber Young Professionals event and let’s make networking a little less awkward together.
By: Gabi Underwood, Reis Informatica
