5 Useful Tips for marketing yourself and your team at a networking event
Networking events present a variety of opportunities for individuals and organisations as a whole. Here are some useful tips to get the most out of networking events.
#1 – Hashtags
Use twitter to get your event hashtags out there. While at the event, the hashtag provides a platform for you to interact with people who share your interests online. Prior to an event, many of the people who plan on attending will use the event hashtag in their tweets to let others know that they will be there. When you’ve already had an online interaction with someone who is attending the same event as you, it can often be easier to walk up and introduce yourself because you will already have acquainted yourself with this prospective connection.
#2 – Clear objective For the Event
Whether you are attending an event with a group or flying solo it is important that you know what you are hoping to get out of the event. In order to justify costs, time away from the office or travel, a plan of action is key. Examples of objectives might include getting new clients, researching new content for your blogs and social media posts or job opportunities.
#3 – Arrive early, but don’t overstay your welcome
The earlier you are the more people you will typically meet, including those organising the event. Marketing events will usually have some time for networking both before and after the scheduled presentation or activity. Find that balance between jetting out the door and staying so late that you have trouble focusing at work the next day.
#4 – Be Professional
There is nothing wrong with having a good time with your fellow marketers, but don’t forget why you are there. You must remember that you are representing your company and that how you act is a reflection on your organization as a whole.
#5 –Participate
Whatever the participation opportunity might be, try to get involved. Participation can take on a variety of forms. Sometimes there will be a Q&A opportunity after a presentation and other times your participation may include live tweeting your heart out. This presents a chance to mention what brand or company you are representing, as well as getting your questions answered by an expert.
With these guidelines in place, you can get the most out of the sacrifices you made to be there. A great balancing act of work and play never harmed anyone.