Networking at industry events can be a great way to make connections and advance your career. But let’s face it: it’s also a minefield of potential embarrassment, awkward moments, and even boredom. To help you navigate the treacherous waters of networking, we’ve compiled a list of what NOT to do at industry events.
The cocktail conundrum: to drink or not to drink (much)
If anybody deserves a drink, it’s anyone who works in the travel industry. Everyday has one of those days and nobody will blame you for wanting to wind down with a glass of wine (or three) amongst friends and colleagues. But there’s a very clear line. Try not to overstep it or you might end up making some embarrassing ‘connections’.
Don’t be the lush whose only networking is done with the bartender. Know your limit and engage a colleague or friend to help you stick to it. We mention this one first because alcohol tends to be the lubricant that encourages all the other bad behaviour…
Eat and drink like a king, but not like a medieval king
This may come as a shock for some, but the food and drink at an event is not the only food and drink in existence. You want to enjoy the freebies, but not to the point where you’re waiting by the kitchen door for the next round of hors d’oeuvres.
That said, A NOTE TO EVENT ORGANISERS: If your event falls between 6-9pm, that’s dinner. Cater accordingly. If people are milling around by the kitchen door, food isn’t being served fast enough. Agents are so busy that skipping meals is becoming more and more common. Feed them.
Network, but subtly
Bring business cards, yes, but you don’t need to make it rain. You want to make connections, not litter the venue with your own personal branding.
It’s not about you
Sell yourself. But nobody wants to hear you drone on for hours about your own accomplishments. And you’re there to learn from others so ask about them. Ask questions that make people feel like they’re the star of the show, just not a cop show. They don’t need to be interrogated. Ask open-ended questions that allow them to share their experiences and opinions, and listen carefully to what they have to say. It may help you down the track.
TMI is a thing
While we do probably want to hear about the intimate details of your personal life, it’s probably best to save those for your hairdresser or the second night of a fam trip. Keep it professional and relevant.
Keep your hands and lips to yourself
Sometimes a little social distancing is welcomed. Not everyone wants a kiss and cuddle. I personally want to mention that it is not okay for you to kiss me on my lips (you know who you are). And we certainly don’t want any lingering touches or anything below the belt line. This may sound like common sense, but you’d be surprised (actually, you probably wouldn’t be).
Don’t cheat
It is never okay to put two business cards in the barrel for a door prize. You will be booed.
Connect, yes. Stalk, no.
After an event, it’s a great idea to connect via email or LinkedIn. You want to remind people of who you are, but not like you’re spamming their inbox. Send a friendly message that references something you talked about, and suggest a next step that benefits both of you. If you don’t hear back, don’t assume they’re not interested, they could just be busy. Or abducted by aliens.
There are a tonne of industry events on at the moment. Find out what’s on using Karryon’s Events Calendar and put your (appropriate) networking skills to the test.
