You're navigating a networking event where you feel out of place. How can you create meaningful connections?

Ask someone, anyone, everyone a question. Once there is even a low level conversation started, you can build that into a substantive exchange. Build on that, and do it again and again. The point is not just to talk, but to gain information and rapport so that you can find a way to bring value to them.

After your conversation, make a point to follow up with the person, whether it’s through a quick email, a LinkedIn connection, or scheduling a coffee chat. This simple act of follow-up demonstrates that you value the interaction and are interested in building a lasting professional relationship.

At a networking event where you feel out of place, take the opportunity to listen and observe; you might find someone with a similar experience. Share your company’s story—it’s about perseverance and trying new things. This approach can create meaningful connections and open up conversations with others who resonate with your journey.

Curiosity is a great start, but it’s only the beginning—don’t let it turn into an endless Q&A session. While asking questions shows interest, it’s crucial to balance it with sharing your own experiences to create a mutual exchange. Think of Richard Branson, who often combines his curiosity with stories from his own adventures, making conversations engaging and reciprocal. Engage with curiosity, but remember to offer your insights too—real connections are built on shared dialogue, not just listening.

Genuine curiosity can be a powerful tool to break the ice and build rapport. Instead of focusing on your own discomfort, direct your attention outward. Ask open-ended questions about the other person's work, interests, or experiences. This not only demonstrates your interest but also positions you as a valuable listener. Remember, people love talking about themselves, so give them the opportunity to shine. For instance, instead of asking a generic "What do you do?", try "What's the most exciting project you're working on right now?"

If you find common ground during the conversation, such as shared experiences or interests, use it to build rapport. Acknowledging these similarities can create an instant connection, making both parties feel more at ease and fostering a stronger relationship.

Shift the focus by asking insightful questions about others’ experiences and challenges. For example, inquire about their current projects or goals, allowing you to engage meaningfully and create connections even when you initially feel out of place.

Active listening is often overlooked in networking, yet it's the cornerstone of building genuine connections. When someone is speaking, give them your undivided attention. Maintain eye contact, nod, and offer verbal affirmations to show you're engaged. By truly listening to what the other person is saying, you'll gain valuable insights into their perspective, and they'll feel valued and understood. Remember, people appreciate being heard, and it opens the door for deeper conversations. For example, instead of simply waiting for your turn to speak, try reflecting back what the other person has said to show you're paying attention.

In networking, listening is more powerful than talking! Understanding someone’s needs through active listening has often led to unexpected and rewarding collaborations. The best connections are built on the foundation of genuine interest and shared goals.

Sharing stories is powerful, but it’s not about you—it’s about connecting your narrative to theirs. Stories are memorable, but the key is to weave your experience into the context of the conversation, making it relevant to the person you’re speaking with. Just as Steve Jobs did when launching the iPhone, he didn’t just talk about technology; he connected it to how people’s lives could change. Craft your stories to resonate with others’ experiences, creating a bridge between your worlds.

People connect on a deeper level when they can relate to shared experiences. Sharing personal anecdotes can make you more relatable and memorable. It's not about bragging or self-promotion; instead, focus on stories that illustrate your values, passions, or challenges. A well-told story can spark engaging conversations and create a sense of camaraderie. For instance, if you're discussing a particular industry challenge, share a time when you faced a similar situation and how you overcame it. This not only showcases your problem-solving skills but also invites others to share their experiences.

Share Stories: - Share relevant personal or professional stories to make conversations more engaging and memorable. This helps others get a better sense of who you are and what you bring to the table. - Stories can bridge the gap between formalities and genuine connection, making it easier for others to relate to you and remember you after the event.

When I first started sharing my personal journey—whether it was about my early days working alongside my dad or the tough pivots I had to make in business—I realized something important: "STORIES RESONATE" They connect us on a deeper level than just sharing facts or figures. For me, it’s not about boasting, but about giving people a glimpse into the experiences that shaped who I am as a leader and entrepreneur. I encourage others to do the same. Sharing your story helps people understand your background and what drives you. It builds relatability and can often lead to unexpected opportunities or connections that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.

There's many reasons why you might feel out of place at an event. It still happens to me after attending 100s of events. Embrace the feeling. It will happen again in the future and the more time you spend in the uncomfortable zone, the less scary it becomes. Two strategies: 1) Join the biggest circle - you're most anonymous so it's easy to listen without actively participating. When someone says something which feels like common ground either jump in or move toward that individual and talk to them separately. 2) Look for others who seem on the outskirts - "Do you not know anyone else here too?". If they don't then you create a shared bond on your outsider status. If they do (and have EQ), they'll include you into their group!

Discovering shared interests or experiences is a powerful way to build rapport. People naturally gravitate towards those who share their passions or perspectives. Pay attention to the other person's conversation, and look for opportunities to connect on a personal level. Maybe you both enjoy hiking, follow the same sports team, or have a mutual interest in a particular industry. By finding common ground, you create an instant connection and a foundation for a more meaningful conversation. For example, if you learn that someone is a fan of a particular book, you could share your thoughts on it or recommend a similar title.

Find Common Ground: - Identify any common interests or experiences as these act as natural conversation starters and strengthen bonds between people. - Common ground makes interactions feel more comfortable and productive, enhancing the likelihood of developing professional relationships.

Be Proactive: Don’t wait for others to approach you. Take the initiative to introduce yourself and express genuine interest in the people you meet. This proactive approach can lead to valuable connections. Practice active listening and ask questions to understand their needs and interests, which helps in fostering a more meaningful dialogue.

Offer Value: - Always think about how you can help or provide value to others. This could be through your expertise, resources, or by connecting someone to another contact. - Offering help without immediately expecting something in return sets a positive tone for the relationship and increases the chances of mutual support in the future.

Networking isn't just about receiving; it's about giving. Focus on how you can help others rather than what you can gain. This could be sharing your expertise, offering a resource, or simply providing a listening ear. People are more likely to remember and connect with those who add value to their lives. For example, if you're discussing industry trends, offer your insights based on your experience. Or, if someone mentions a challenge they're facing, suggest potential solutions or resources. By positioning yourself as a helpful and knowledgeable individual, you'll build strong relationships based on mutual respect.

I have seen that most of the attendees don't connect after the networking events, hence developing a feeling of being out of place. The follow-up is crucial for turning brief encounters into lasting connections. Send a personalized message within 24-48 hours, referencing specific details from your conversation to show genuine interest. Start by expressing gratitude for their time, then suggest a clear next step like meeting for coffee or collaborating on a project. Be mindful of their time by offering flexible scheduling, and consider connecting on social media to stay in touch. Finally, always follow through on any promises made. This thoughtful approach solidifies the relationship and keeps the door open for future opportunities.

Following up is essential, but don’t let it be just another check on your to-do list. Too often, follow-up messages are robotic and forgettable. Take a page from Dale Carnegie’s book—be genuinely interested in the other person’s challenges or goals when you reconnect, making your follow-up feel personal and thoughtful. A meaningful follow-up isn’t just about maintaining contact; it’s about deepening the relationship with authenticity and care.

Follow Up: - Ensure to follow up with new contacts post-event. Send personalized emails or messages that reflect your conversation, expressing interest in continuing the dialogue. - Proposing specific follow-up actions, like a coffee meeting or a potential collaboration, can help transition a casual encounter into a meaningful professional relationship.