How to be the Most Memorable Person at Networking Events

Every networking event is unique, so that means every person at a networking event requires different strategies to get ahead. Most people tend to find success through being memorable, or by capturing the attention of an executive or important person. This article will list some strategies for you to use at your next networking event.

Note: this article was originally published by Leigh Honeywell and I have included a few extra tips.

1. Be proactive: Don't wait for an invitation to attend an event. Not only does this annoy the organizers of the event, but it also takes edge off your growing network of successful people by making you look like a one trick pony working the same circles over and over again. So hit up your friends who are already in their industry and ask them to invite you to their events. You can often get discounted or free entry into these types of events or exclusive access through industry specific groups like Women in Business (WIB) or Women in Industry (WI).

2. Networking and Events – Get Involved: You're never going to have the chance to know everyone at a networking event, so you need to make the most of it. At a networking event you have an opportunity to meet and be introduced to some of the movers and shakers in the community that you may not have had the chance to meet before. Most people shy away from taking advantage of social events because they fear they will look like they are just trying to meet as many people as possible. But what if that's exactly what you're doing? Consider making it about more than just signing business cards, which is seen by many as not important enough for them to take any time out of their busy schedule.

3. Be authentic: Being authentic is a key ingredient for success, though it can often be surprising how many people dress down to fit in. Yes, you want to fit in and be comfortable at events, but if you are wearing the same type of suit as everyone else you are going to come across as generic just like all the other suits. Wear whatever fits your personality, even if that means dressing up or dressing down. And you shouldn't feel like you have to try and justify why you aren't dressed up. Now if you're introducing yourself and telling people who you are and what your business is all about, then by all means dress appropriately for that situation.

4. Be persistent: This is one of the most important points of this article. If you want people to remember you at networking events then you should be making an effort to connect with them. But if you go over and over again at the same event and don't get any feedback, it may not work out in your favor. This is why it's important that you don't give up after one or two attempts. Be persistent, but also be patient. Don't start believing that no one will ever remember you because they all have busy schedules. One day someone will see what a great person and business partner you are, and before too long they'll ask for your card so they can call you.

5. Create a memorable image: When you are networking you have the opportunity to put yourself out there, but it's important that you focus on your image as well. The last thing you want is for people to forget all about you. So take the time to think of an image that someone can associate with you if they see you at events. If they know they'll be talking to someone who is wearing a Great Gatsby pin-striped suit then what kind of impression will that make? Now if they see that Great Gatsby pin-stripe suit worn by a person who is always making new connections then this person could be someone people want to get acquainted with.

6. Be a connector: Although this is not as simple as it may sound, this is one of the most overlooked skills in networking. One of the most important things you can do in a networking situation is to introduce someone to another person. A great way to do this is to not simply meet someone, but ask them if they'd like your business card. Ask them if they would be interested in going out for dinner or coffee with you so that you can get to know them better and see if there's a connection that could lead to something bigger.

7. Be persistent: If someone says no or doesn't take your card then don't just assume it means nothing happened – give it another try and try again. If it happens again, then ask for feedback on what you could do differently to have them remember you.

8. Be authentic: You need to be yourself and not just pretend that you're someone else because it will go to waste when people start asking about your past work experience, education and hobbies. If you don't have things figured out in certain areas then make sure those areas are kept quiet so the focus is on your strong points.

9. Be a student of the social game: It's important to learn what other people are doing right so that you can adapt their strategies and create a more effective networking strategy of your own.

10. Be a student of your industry: Not only can you learn how your industry works, but also how other industries work. Learning what makes other people successful will help you by giving you insights into what worked for them and maybe even give you something new to try out in your own business or job. Learn to be curious about the things that make other people succeed. This is the best way to learn about new strategies for networking, as well as what works and what doesn't work in your industry.

11. Be intense: Many people are afraid to be intense, because they fear others will think they are too forceful or simply way too much to handle. But the truth is that people appreciate a person who cares and can show that they care. Being intense doesn't mean that you're pressuring everyone around you, but it means you're making an effort to get to know the right people and do your part in growing the community.

12. Be persistent: One of the best pieces of advice for networking and meeting new people is to not give up after the first try or two. As with all things in business, it's often not until after the third time that you start seeing real results from your efforts.

13. Be authentic: It may be the case that you are uncomfortable in social settings, so your goal is to get over this and be more confident around others. But one way to do this is to not just put on an act in an attempt to become someone you're not. Be your true self, but if there are things that don't help you to come across as a stronger business person then try removing them from your public image.

14. Be genuine: You need to be genuine throughout the entire process of networking – even when it comes time for a possible job interview or business deal.

Conclusion

The key to effective networking is being genuine, persistent and patient. You need to show that you care about the people you are networking with, and also show that you are committed to growing your business as opposed to simply taking a sale whenever it presents itself. If you can do this consistently then you'll soon find that networking will be one of your strengths and not just one of those things that takes up a part of your life.

About the Author:

Jorden Roper is a freelance writer who specializes in writing on LinkedIn, blog posts, articles and other areas related to entrepreneurship. In addition he writes for http://www.smallbusinessideas-ideas4businesses.