The Fine Art of Networking

Organised events can be a great place to make new contacts and get your name known with people and companies who could be beneficial to you. Here's how to get the most out of the experience.

Plan talking points beforehand

Think of a few topics you can discuss - a project you're working on, a new skill you're picking up, or an interesting article you've read. If there are specific people you hope to meet, research them ahead of time.

Go in with purpose

Identify who is likely to be at the event and who you want to speak to. Set a goal to meet a handful of specific people - once that's done, take the pressure off and mix more freely for the rest of the event.

Bring business cards

It makes you look more professional and polished, and means people can get in touch with you again afterwards.

Look for the open group

Look for two or three people in conversation whose bodies are turned outwards, as if looking around at the crowd - a sign there's nothing exclusive going on and you could be the icebreaker they were looking for.

Think about how you can help

Even if you feel new to an industry, there are still ways to help the people you meet - make an introduction, share something useful, or offer to be a mentor. Helping others first tends to come back around.