Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most From Virtual Networking Events
If you have ever attended a virtual networking event and wished there was a way to get more out of it, you are not alone. Many networking event attendees end up feeling this way. One reason is that many people do not know what to expect their first time attending. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to ensure that next time is successful. For example, consider these tips.
Introduce Yourself and Showcase Your Personality
From the very beginning of the event, make a point to introduce yourself and showcase your personality. A solid self-introduction can help you “break the ice” and a good first impression can make all the difference. To stand out, use a custom Google Meet background that fits your style and find ways to make others feel more comfortable by reaching out. Introducing yourself also displays your self-confidence.
Research and Prep Questions
Before you spend too much time thinking about your branded Zoom background or how you will introduce yourself, however, you should research the event that you are attending. One of the best things you can do to prepare for any virtual networking event is compile a set of prep questions that will help prompt future discussions. Asking the right questions is also a way to help others start brainstorming, and it can bring everyone together more.
Take Part in Discussions
After you spend adequate time on research and question formulation, the next key part to networking event success is taking part in the discussions. After you introduce yourself, you can make your presence further felt by contributing meaningful comments to conversations. Sometimes, a meaningful comment may simply be one of your well-thought-out questions, but other times, you should make an effort to contribute your knowledge and experience to conversations, too. This will help others understand you better.
Prepare Your Tech and Presentation
Depending on what kind of virtual networking event you attend, there may also be a presentation opportunity. If so, this is the perfect chance to take advantage of helpful technology such as an attractive MS Teams background or high-quality headset. Whatever approach you decide to take, make sure to put thought into your preparation. One of the worst things you can do is to under prepare. At the same time, however, do not overthink things, either.
Reach Out to Other Participants
Before the end of a virtual networking event, be sure to ask for the contact information of other participants. Then, do not be afraid to reach out to them with industry-related questions or ideas for collaboration. Working with others in your field and other fields of interest can be an excellent learning opportunity. Plus, this is how many of the best professional relationships begin.
At the end of the day, the success of your virtual networking event experience has a lot to do with the level of you put into it. By following tips such as these, you can build relationships and create new professional opportunities. Make sure to try them during the next event that you attend!
