Five Types of Networking Events Explained: What to do, how to do it?

Networking is the act of making connections and building relationships with people who can help you in your personal or professional life. While many people think of networking as simply sending connection requests on LinkedIn, there are actually many different platforms and real-life situations that are suitable and might I say, easier to approach for the purpose of networking.

In this article, we will explore five different types of networking and how you can excel in each of them.

1. Professional Conferences

Professional conferences are events where people from a particular industry or field come together to learn about the latest trends, share knowledge and network with one another. To excel in this type of networking, it is important to do some research beforehand and identify the key players in your industry who will be attending.

Make a plan to attend the sessions and workshops that are most relevant to your interests and expertise. Ask open-ended questions to initiate conversations, and bring with yourself a lot of confidence. In such conferences, you get to meet potential clients or partners and build relationships with influential people in your field. This is why I always recommend attending professional conferences if your time allows.

1. Online Webinars

Online webinars are virtual events we are all aware of, and probably sick of. But, the more I talk to my successful students, the more I learn how crucial and easily available this resource can become. To excel in this type of networking, it is important to actively participate in the event by asking questions, sharing your own experiences, and engaging with other attendees in the chat or Q&A sessions.

Follow up with any interesting or relevant people after the event and keep in touch with them through social media or email. The benefits of attending online webinars are straightforward - you learn, meet people from all over the world, and build relationships with people who share your interests.

1. Local Workshops

Local workshops are where people can learn new skills or techniques related to their profession or hobby. Note that, it is important to choose workshops that are relevant to your interests and expertise and actively participate in the activities or discussions. Take the time to introduce yourself to other attendees and exchange contact information with them. The benefits of attending local workshops is, it gives you a huge advantage in building close relationships with people in your local community.

1. Alumni Networking Groups

Alumni networking groups are organizations that connect graduates of a particular school or university. Spend some time attending events hosted by the group and actively participate in the discussions or activities. Whenever you get a chance, introduce yourself to other alumni and exchange contact information with them.

Keep in touch with the group through social media or email and participate in any volunteer or mentoring opportunities that are available. The benefits of joining an alumni networking group include building relationships with people who share your educational background, gaining access to job or internship opportunities, and giving back to your alma mater. Wholesome.

1. Company-Specific Informational Interviews

Company-specific informational interviews are meetings organised by companies with the intention to introduce themselves, their culture, and job opportunities. Such meetings also help in learning more about one’s industry.

Because you’re putting yourself out there as a potential candidate in these meetings, remember to do your research beforehand and prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Dress professionally, arrive on time for the meeting and follow up with a thank-you note or email after the interview and keep in touch with the person you met with through social media or email. Informational interviews have a high success rate, potentially gaining access to job or internship opportunities.

Final Thoughts

By identifying the different types of networking events and approaching them with confidence and preparation, you can excel in each of these settings and build valuable connections with people who can help you in your future endeavors. As it stands, networking is an important part of building relationships and advancing your personal and professional goals.