How to stand out positively at networking

by Joanna Gaudoin | Dec 23, 2017

Making a good impression at networking

Networking is only worthwhile if we can stand out positively and make a lasting impression. Here are five tips to help differentiate you from the crowd.

Picture a networking event, there is usually a sea of dark clothing…

When we go to an event, there is a lot to think about such as goals and how to integrate into the room. But the most important thing is that you are positively memorable to those you meet. It is no good having a great conversation at an event, if when you try to reconnect and carry it on, the person has forgotten who you are. I heard about this happening to a man I know recently. He had a very positive conversation on the night, yet was brushed off later in the week. The person he followed up with clearly didn’t remember the man behind the email and thought it was a random approach.

stand out positively

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5 top tips to stand out positively

So my 5 top networking tips for being positively memorable at networking events:

Only go to events that work for you– timing, format etc. If you’re not even a bit happy to be there, then that will come across.
Clothing– whilst we don’t want to be remembered only for what we wear, it can be used to our advantage if we think about how we could be positively memorable. People are very visual. It can be very helpful to remember the ‘woman in the red jacket’ linking it to the conversation. There is a lady I know and come across fairly frequently who I struggle to remember by name. But I do remember her by her bold handbags and that links in my head to her job role and company. If you are easy to find in a room, it also makes it easier for others to point someone they have met in your direction, if relevant. If they can’t easily spot you, it won’t happen!
Be human. Build rapport with people first before getting into work conversation. We all have journeys, homes etc.
Show interest in others – how many people do you encounter at networking that just want to talk about themselves? There are a fair few. It is rare for people to show genuine interest, so ask them a few questions before the monologue starts. They are more likely to then ask you some back.
Offer to help, if you can and as long as you feel happy to- For example, if they say they’re considering a job move and you know someone in the area they want to move to, offer the contact. Just make sure you keep your promise afterwards.

Networking is rarely a loved activity and often under-utilised by those in corporate roles. There are many advantages to be had though. Remember you can’t build a network when you need one, it takes time.