10 top tips to take the nerves out of networking

As part of our new networking event launch, we thought we’d talk about social anxiety and its ability to show up at the worst possible moment, when you’re about to step foot through the door into a roomful of strangers.

According to UK statistics, around a third of people reported having high levels of anxiety. Naturally, this can be exacerbated by stressful situations, and many find themselves avoiding business networking events out of fear, meaning they miss out on the vast opportunities they offer.

Over the years, the team from QMT Commercial have attended a number of events, and do you know what? Those butterflies are still there. But with preparation, patience and practice, you too can forget the fear and enjoy all the benefits of networking – take a look at our top tips:

Find a networking event that works for you
If you’re a novice networker, find a networking event that suits your needs. For example, would a remote networking event be less intense to start off with? Where is the event being held – is it in a large conference room or at a business show, or somewhere smaller and less formal? How is the event being described and does that appeal to you? It may be a good idea to get in touch with the event organisers and ask about the format and the maximum group size so that you can gage if the event is the right fit for you before attending.

Take time to prepare
Planning takes the fear out of social situations. Thinking in advance about what you will wear, how you will introduce yourself  and what you might say are all good tactics to avoid last minute stress. Before the event, plan a list of questions you might want to ask others – this can be simple chit-chat, about the community or about their experience as a local business owner. If you ask, the organisers may be happy to share the guest list with you prior to the event so that you can look the companies up, to find common ground and interests to discuss. In addition, make sure you have plenty of business cards to pass out – these will be vital to keep growing the connections you have made after the event.

Look after yourself in the run up
When it comes to managing our mental health, self-care is important. Getting a good night’s sleep the night before will help you feel calm and rested. Making sure you’ve had something to eat before you go is also a good idea – eating at networking events can be a bit awkward, particularly if someone asks you a question mid-bite! You should also be mindful if there is alcohol involved that you don’t drink on an empty stomach and don’t overdo it, as this may make your anxiety worse.

Buddy up
If you’re really nervous, consider asking a colleague or business contact to join you. This can give you some reassurance that you won’t be alone, even if you choose to separate at points. If you’re from the same organisation, this also helps to spread the load when it comes to any potential follow ups after the event.

Set reasonable goals
Be realistic – networking is about building relationships and you may not come away with a sale straight away. Start with small targets related to overcoming your social anxiety – for example speaking with one person for five minutes or obtaining five business cards and work your way up to bigger goals as you become more comfortable.

Remember to be yourself
At the end of the day, people buy people – what they don’t buy is corporate robots with no personality regurgitating the company values. Many guests will prefer authentic, real conversation over polished, perfect pitches. So, be yourself, be genuine and above all, have fun.

Learn active listening
Active listening helps you to form stronger relationships, as you give your full attention to the person who is speaking, process their point, then respond accordingly rather than simply waiting for your turn to speak.

Networking is a two-way conversion. It’s as much about discovering what others can offer you, as it is what you can offer them. You may come away with a really useful bit of advice, a new business mentor or supplier – all of which can help you grow as much as a sale. Never disregard someone that you immediately don’t think is your target audience as they may be able to introduce you to someone in their contacts who could be.

Forget imposter syndrome
It is common for business people to have feelings of inadequacy, regardless of their level of success. Remember, you are at this event for a reason – you are passionate about growing your business and you want to help others to do so too. Anxiety and imposter syndrome go hand and hand and can lead to you making self-deprecating comments in social situations. Try to avoid negative self-talk and focus on the things you and your business do well.

Follow up is essential
It’s recommended to follow up with other guests within 24 hours of the event. Following their company on social media and sending a quick email will help to consolidate the relationship you are forming. You can also reach out prior to future events to see whether they’ll be attending – that way, you know if you’ll have a familiar face there – taking away some of the anxiety of the unknown.

Feeling this way is normal
Above all else, remember that everyone is in the same position and it’s unlikely that you are the only person with nerves. What you are doing is out of your comfort zone and we promise that it will get easier with patience and practice – the more networking you do, the easier it will become.

So, there you have it. If you’re reading this and have never been to a networking event before, hopefully you feel encouraged to give it a go! Getting involved with your local business community is a win-win situation and will open new doors and opportunities. You won’t look back once you’ve started.

If you’d like to learn more about our upcoming networking dates in Ashford, simply get in touch on:

T: 01233 222 562
E: ashford@qmtcommercial.co.uk