Networking event know-it-all: What they are and why you should create your own

Looking for a job these days can be quite difficult. Have you sent out resumes to a bunch of different job offers but to no avail? It may be time to change your job search strategy and explore the world of networking events.

These gatherings provide opportunities to connect with professionals, gain insights into industries, and potentially secure job leads. However, navigating these events requires a strategic approach. With the help of some networking experts, we’ll provide you with the tips you need to make the most out of networking events and help you boost your job search. We’ll also share advice on how to create your own networking event, which could be the magic ingredient your job search has been missing.

Different types of networking events

It’s important to note that there are many different kinds of networking events that you can attend, each catering to different industries and professional levels. It’s all about which one aligns best with your career goals, and where you feel most comfortable going.

Industry events and conferences

These are usually organized by professional associations, or media outlets, and feature speakers, workshops, and panels related to your field. You can learn from experts and meet potential employers or colleagues.

To find relevant events and conferences, Avi Mahbubani, a global tech development consultant and host of tech networking events, recommends various platforms including Facebook, Eventbrite, and Linkedin.

Online networking events

If you’re not so comfortable meeting people in person you always have the option of attending an online networking event to get yourself into the groove. There are websites and apps that allow you to create a profile, showcase your skills and achievements, join groups or communities, and interact with other professionals. Some useful websites include Behance for creatives, Wellfound (formerly AngelList) for startups, and GitHub for developers.

Alumni networking

Another way to network with people in your field is to look into your alumni networks and associations. These groups connect graduates from the same school, college, or university, and offer various benefits and opportunities. You can find and join your alumni networks and associations through your school’s website, social media pages, or alumni directory.

Creating your own networking event

Creating your own networking event as a job seeker can be an effective way to expand your professional network and potentially uncover job opportunities. First and foremost, it’s important to define your goal and the purpose of your event. Is it to meet professionals in a specific industry, gain insights into certain companies, or find a new job?

Keeping that in mind, the next step would be targeting your audience and identifying the people you want to invite, professionals, industry experts, recruiters, etc.

Next, you need to decide the format of your event. It could be a casual meetup, a panel discussion, a workshop—there are plenty of options to choose from. Then you can start planning the structure of the event leaving time for networking, panel discussions, and various talks. Once all of that’s figured out, choose a suitable venue: this could be a coffee shop, a co-working space, or an online platform if you choose to go the digital route.

Nikita Gupta, cofounder of Careerflow.ai, even suggests reaching out to people on Linkedin for a chat. She emphasizes the importance of meeting in person, noting that it makes a significant difference in building connections.

Just like when you’re looking for a networking event, you can promote your own on professional networks and event platforms to spread the word. Again, you could use Meetup, Eventbrite, and/or Linkedin. It’s also important to prepare icebreakers or discussion topics to facilitate networking among attendees in order to encourage them to mingle, exchange information, and engage in discussions.

Creating your networking event demonstrates your proactive approach to networking and can significantly expand your professional circle while continuing your job search. When creating your own event, Gupta stresses the importance of sponsorship, effective marketing, and ensuring attendance. But Gupta also raises the question: is it worth your time? Keep in mind the amount of time and effort it takes to create your own event and maybe start off with attending one first.

Attending a networking event

Now let’s explore some tips to make the most out of networking events and what you can do to make your attendance worth your time. Some may ask for a fee but there are many that you can find online for free. The most important thing is figuring out what makes you feel the most comfortable.

Gupta also suggests networking in a way that feels less “overwhelming to you.” Choosing the right type of networking event definitely depends on your goals, industry, and personal preferences.

1. Choose wisely

Once you’ve chosen the type of networking event you want to attend, make sure to research the people attending. Prioritize the events you choose based on their alignment with your industry or career goals. Joie Karcher, founder of Your Network Now, suggests attending networking events with “intentionality.” and really going to something you are passionate about. She also recommends bringing a friend if you ever feel intimidated.

Mahbubani suggests that before attending an event is it best to identify what the companies present will be looking for, so you can prepare yourself and ask relevant questions.

2. Be prepared

It’s recommended to attend a networking event knowing who you want to talk to and what you’re looking for. As networking events can be quite busy sometimes, it’s important to be efficient.

For example, Gupta advises updating LinkedIn profiles and having resumes ready for immediate sharing. Mahbubani emphasizes the importance of asking questions and “being genuinely interested in others.” He adds, “You never know who you are going to meet,” and stresses the importance of creating real conversations with people.

Having questions ready can also make you feel better about starting a conversation. Karcher suggests preparing conversation starters with questions like, “What do you do”and, “Who do you work for?” It’s important to bring the conversation to them: “I want to know about you.”

3. Always follow up

Once you have started conversations and begun collecting contacts of people you’ve met at networking events, it’s always a good idea to keep in touch—especially if the conversation you had can be of use to building your career.

Karcher emphasizes how important it is to always follow up. When you’re in the midst of a networking event, you’re talking to so many different recruiters, making connections left and right. Karcher says “staying on someone’s radar” is the best way to secure a follow-up discussion. She encourages people to reach out to people they have met and to never be afraid to make a phone call. Gupta even suggests having an email draft ready to send during the event or right after.

4. Dress the part

First impressions matter, and your appearance plays a significant role. Dress professionally and in accordance with the event’s dress code, if there is one. Ensure that your outfit reflects the industry you’re targeting. Karcher recommends “dressing to impress: looking professional and presentable.” The advantage of going to these events in person is that you can really show who you are as a person.

Mahbubani adds that it’s best not to over-sell or pitch yourself. It’s better to show “your true self and, most of all, try to be relaxed”.

Just one avenue of job-seeking

Networking events offer the possibility for a more human-centric approach to the job hunt. It’s a way for you to engage in real-time conversations with possible recruiters and build on that connection later on. In-person meetings can help you show your brand and who you are.

These types of events are powerful tools for job seekers, offering a platform to expand professional connections and uncover potential opportunities. By approaching these events with a strategic mindset, perfecting your personal pitch, and maintaining a positive and engaging demeanor, you can turn networking opportunities into career successes.

However, make sure to keep in mind that networking is just one avenue of job seeking. If this is not something you feel comfortable with, there are many other tools out there for you to discover to improve your job search.

Photo: Welcome to the Jungle

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