How to network efficiently when you are an event professional

Networking, Champagne, and Mild Panic – what I would recommend to my young self, 20 years ago

Dear Diary,

Networking and cocktail time and events of all sorts are way not over for event professionals like me. This makes me remember when I was a young professional, when I was invited to an event and had to go on my own. The moment I walked into it, and BAM—everyone already seemed to know each other. The room was buzzing, little groups were deep in conversation, and I was just… standing there, gripping my glass of champagne like it was a life raft.  How should I avoid looking miserable, trying to casually blend into a plant or pretend to text an hypothetical colleague or friend. We can all relate to that image.

I had to take control of my situation: I chose to follow an unprepared networking game plan like the confident woman I aspired to be. It takes a lot of courage, a big breath and JUMP!

And because I never want another woman to experience the mild terror of standing awkwardly at an event, here's my foolproof guide to networking like a boss.

Step 1: Anticipating the event starting block (Ugh, I Know)

It turns out, successful networking isn't about wearing fabulous shoes (although, today the sneakers trend helps!). It starts BEFORE you even walk in the door.

📌 Figure out your goal. Are you looking for new clients? Dream collaborations? New trendy venues and suppliers? Knowing this in advance keeps you focused (and stops you from wasting time chatting with someone who should not be on your radar).

📌 Do a little professional stalking. Let's be honest, in this type of event, you won't be able to access the participants list. You can hardly read the names/company on badges at the risk of looking awkward especially if you want to look up close. Of course, if the list is accessible, you can come prepared before the event. Search on LinkedIn and connect.
That way, when you meet in person, you're not just another random face—she or he has already seen your name, and you've got an instant convo starter.

📌 Have your intro ready. But please, no boring elevator pitches. Instead, keep it short and personal:

People LOVE talking about their projects, make them talk about themselves first and then try to identify what's in it for you. This makes you instantly more interesting than someone else's monologue. 

Step 2: Surviving the Actual Event Without Dying Inside

Alright, now I'm in the event. Time for my secret weapons against awkwardness.

😴 Be chatty, be friendly and skip the small talk. Instead of the classic "So, what do you do?", I go for something more interesting:

• "What's been the highlight of the event for you so far?"
• "This venue is amazing—what do you think about it?"

These questions get people talking naturally and make me way more memorable than if I just asked about their next event they're planning

✨ Offer value before you ask for anything. If I can introduce someone to a useful contact, share a killer resource, or recommend a great tool, I do it. People remember those who help them. (Also, women supporting women? We love to see it.)

Step 3: The Business Card Glow-Up (but do not ditch the Paper) 📲

You need to have both : some people have completely skipped the paper business card, some are still using them. It's true that keeping track of paper business cards at home or in the office can be challenging. However some people still like the paper version.

However, when I pull out my digital card, people immediately think I'm effortlessly tech-savvy. Do I always feel that way? No. But do I look that way? Yes. And that's what matters.)

Step 4: The Follow-Up Gain without fail

📩 Within 24 hours, I send a message either by email or connect on LinkedIn and it goes like:
"Hey [Name], it was SO great meeting you at [Event X]! I loved our chat about [specific topic]. Let's stay in touch—would love to explore ways we can collaborate!"

🚀 Extra boss move: If I promised to send over a link, intro, or resource, I do it immediately. The faster I follow up, the more impressive (and professional) I seem.

🔔 I set a reminder to check in two weeks later. If they don't reply, no stress—just a quick: "Hey, just checking in! Would love to continue our convo."

Polite persistence is key. Following up once is what everyone does. Following up twice makes me stand out.)

What you should take away from these tips on how to network in events

Ultimately, being an event professional means mastering the art of networking. Sometimes, it's worth revisiting the basics and leveling up your approach. Networking isn't about handing out business cards to strangers—it's about building authentic, meaningful connections. And at Key Events, genuine connection is at the heart of what we do..

So next time you walk into an event, do not panic and remember all these tips.
Take a deep breath, grab a glass, and remember—You've got this!