You're surrounded by professionals at a networking event. How do you ensure you forge valuable connections?

Make sure to do your research. Find out who is attending and decide who you would like to meet. If possible see if you can forge some connections using LinkedIn before the event. If there is someone in particular you would like an introduction to, maybe see if there is someone already in your network who could introduce you to them

I must say, as nervous as I can get in a bigger setting, I would summon up all the braveness inside me, and just find a group of friendly faces that I could, start chatting with. A cool way to slot in, is to find a person on the panel, and thank them for their time. Just be yourself, let them know you are online, like LinkedIn or X, and take your phone out to jot their name done on a digital notepad etc. Also try to listen as much as you can, before deciding to speak (always important to know ones audience before opening your mouth) Remember its hard for us all at these events, so let that calm your anxiety levels down :)

Prior to an event I will research the guest list & if possible, reach out to the event coordinator to find out more. I also try to get a warm introduction to my target contacts. You should also make note of what appropriate attire is. Is it a formal event? business casual? Dress appropriately, but I try to wear something that is professional but memorable. Have your calendar handy. If appropriate, try to schedule a follow up meeting at the event. Collect their contact information. Do not rely on them to reach out to you. Follow up promptly! Continue to build on the relationship in aspect possible. Provide value!

Find out what companies are going and who from the companies are going as well. If you know anyone there, reach out ahead of time to let them know you're going. That person can potentially introduce you to others on your target list. Arrive early.

Dress accordingly and carry yourself well. Listen actively to the other person and be genuinely intrigued. Be confident, comfortable, and real especially for first impressions.

The question will always come up, "so what do you do?". Be prepared to answer that like an elevator pitch. Concise and memorable then of course ask them what they do as well. Remember the point is to open the conversation and start the relationship.

The key is to be intentional about making meaningful conversations. You can start by expressing your curiosity about someone's reason for attending the event, their passions or what they hoped to achieve there. You'd be surprised how quickly this approach can shift the conversation from surface-level to meaningful. In addition, it's important to focus on being memorable. You can share an interesting insight or story that aligns with your professional background. In all, the goal is to be relatable and valuable. Lastly, following up thoughtfully on newly made connections after events is a sure way to solidify one's network. Pro tip: I use my AI-powered conversation starter app, Startrs, to prepare tailored icebreakers before events.

It's funny how many times a conversation flows naturally and work-related topics are barely discussed. That's cause we found other commonalities as well during the engagement. It's more than just a sales opportunity. Especially at an in-person networking event, this is the opportunity to start off strong with the new relationship.

Preferably within 24 hours but 48 hours would be ok as well. Keep it short and if there's anything important to recap then go ahead and do that. Each conversation could have a different outcome, so the follow-up purpose would be different as well.