Organisations are once again starting to host networking events in Singapore since all Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. Need a refresher on networking etiquette? Here are 5 tips to help you harness the power of networking:

1. Prepare In Advance

In order to make the most of your time, be clear about what you hope to achieve at the networking event. Are you seeking a career transition? Do you desire to have to connect with other professionals in your field? Without having clearly defined objectives in mind, the networking event will be no different from any other social function.

Therefore, you should lay the groundwork for successful networking weeks before the actual event itself through intentionality and rigorous research. Find out which companies will be represented at the networking event—and if possible, who will be attending. If you have the names of some prominent figures, you can even learn more about their professional backgrounds by checking out their LinkedIn profiles.

2. Show Up, All Dressed Up

From your research, you should have also found out the expected dress code for the networking event, be it formal or business casual. First impressions do matter a great deal, so make sure that you are immaculately groomed in appropriate business attire.

In a sea of black suits and dresses, you want to stand out. Wear an ornate brooch or carry a brightly coloured handbag—your eye-catching accessory will serve as a striking conversation piece. Coupled with the fact that people are more likely to notice and approach you, it’s easier to break the ice as well!

3. Be Early, Be Strategic

You may find it extremely daunting to enter a bustling hall filled with chatter. Thus, on the actual day of the networking event, aim to arrive early. This will give you a chance to scope out the venue—and steel yourself for the networking process, if you’re an introvert.

Contrary to the typical advice given, do not attempt to work the room. In such a setting, more is not necessarily merrier. The strategic move is to focus on making several solid connections rather than exchanging name cards with as many people as possible.

4. Build Rapport

How do you make solid connections? Start by introducing yourself to the individual in front of you with a warm smile. Some call it the elevator pitch, but it is essentially sharing tidbits of information which portrays you as an interesting and knowledgeable person.

After the self-introduction, you face a greater challenge of sustaining the conversation. Show the other party that you’re genuinely interested in what he or she has to say. Be an attentive listener—do not interrupt the other party unnecessarily. Ask thoughtful open-ended questions to deepen your understanding. Instead of trying to promote yourself aggressively (which lacks class), allow the other party to share more.

5. Follow Up Afterwards

When the networking event is over, don’t forget to follow up! The business cards you have collected will come in handy then. Send a personalised thank-you note via email to every individual you’ve spoken to within 24 hours of the event. While this note does not need to be long, you should include one or two memorable highlights from your conversation.

If you wish to develop these professional relationships further, suggest meeting up at a later date for a coffee chat. You can also extend an offer of help, especially if you are aware of a specific need they have.

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