From packed ballrooms at industry-wide conferences to small, intimate Happy Hour gatherings, I have been to my fair share of networking events over the years – and I’ve picked up a tip or two along the way.
With the holiday season upon us and the new year fast approaching, many of us will have events, parties, and meetups to look forward to in the months ahead. I’ll be the first to admit that networking can feel a little daunting when you travel often for work, but with some strategy, these events can become productive opportunities for building lasting professional relationships.
Here’s how to make the most of them.
Networking with Purpose
Heading into a networking event like Happy Hour, it’s helpful to set achievable goals that make the experience productive without feeling forced. Rather than scrambling to meet as many people as possible, focus on creating quality connections with just a few individuals. These connections are more likely to yield fruitful follow-ups and meaningful relationships.
Going in with a goal of connecting with two or three people who share mutual interests or professional synergies can make networking feel more intentional and rewarding. After the event, a brief follow-up message on LinkedIn or via email can reinforce the connection and keep the conversation going.
The Art of Effortless Conversation
Small talk is the most dreaded part of networking for many, but it doesn’t have to be awkward. The secret is approaching others with genuine curiosity and openness. Start with friendly, approachable topics like recent industry trends, mutual connections, or lighthearted questions about the event itself.
For example:
- “What inspired you to attend tonight?”
- “What’s something exciting you’re working on right now?”
These open-ended conversation starters invite others to share their story, allowing the conversation to flow naturally. Simple techniques like maintaining eye contact, actively listening, and giving thoughtful responses build trust and make the interaction memorable.
The relaxed setting of a Happy Hour provides an opportunity to blend personal and professional rapport. Begin with casual topics and gradually steer the conversation toward professional insights. Sharing a light personal story or injecting appropriate humor can make you more relatable, while thoughtful questions about someone’s career goals or industry insights keep the exchange relevant. The key is to strike a balance between personable and professional, leaving a positive, lasting impression.
Finding the Perfect Networking Stage
You may be noticing a trend here – the environment plays a crucial role in successful networking. A more intimate gathering often fosters deeper, more genuine connections than larger events. Invite-only or themed networking events are particularly effective because the guest list is curated, increasing the likelihood of shared interests among attendees.
If you’re at a larger industry event, the often-hectic nature of conferences can make one-on-one networking more challenging. Look into opportunities to attend smaller gatherings, like a Happy Hour or dinner hosted by others at the event.
For a more personal touch, create your own intimate moments amidst the chaos. Step into a quieter space like a hallway or other space or invite a few people to join you for a quick coffee or a casual dinner after the day’s sessions. These more informal settings allow for deeper conversations and a more focused exchange of ideas, making it easier to uncover shared goals and potential collaborations.
Turning Conversations into Connection
Neighborly recognizes that strong relationships are at the heart of what we do, whether connecting with existing or prospective franchise owners, meeting industry partners and vendors, or getting together with our network to Have Fun in the Process.
Just this year alone, my role at Neighborly has given me the opportunity to:
- Meet with industry experts and discuss the future of franchising at events such as IFA, our partner and vendor conferences, and more;
- Host Happy Hours across the country to meet with franchise brokers, consultants, and coaches;
- And speak to franchise owners at our annual Reunion, brand trainings, and more to form meaningful connections across the Neighborly family.
Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards—it’s about building real connections that can open doors to opportunities. By setting clear goals, mastering small talk, and choosing the right events, you can turn casual conversations into meaningful professional relationships. Networking might begin over drinks, but its impact can last far beyond the evening.
Written By Brian Woods, Group VP, Franchise Development, Neighborly on LinkedIn
