Nine Networking Tips

Nine Networking Tips

Rachel Humphrey
Director - Fund Stewardship
UC Berkeley
Stand out at the conference and make connections using a few of the strategies below…
  1. Wear something worth commenting on. This is an easy-in for someone to start a conversation with you. Time to get out that cupcake print scarf or those dangly neon earrings. I have a porcupine necklace that is a great conversation starter. Also, if you are admiring someone else’s garb, say it out loud!
  2. Set your sights. Look at the conference roster. Decide who you want to meet. Join their table if you see them at breakfast or lunch. Ask which sessions they’re attending, or already attended. Make a connection!
  3. Prepare questions. What’s keeping you busy these days? What do you like to do for fun? At my team meetings we often ask “What are you procrastinating on right now?” as a warm-up. We love it. It feels so human.
  4. Pretend to be someone else. But not exactly. You should be you, and wear your own name tag, but if you are on the shy side, imagine you are someone else, like your super confident friend, or a famous person of your choice. Channel confidence.
  5. Get someone to introduce you. If you see someone you know talking to someone you don’t know whom you would like to know, ask them to introduce you. This is easy and another great strategy for shy folks. If this just isn’t happening for you, find me. I will introduce you to anyone whether I know them or not.
  6. Say their name. When you’re introduced to someone new, be sure to repeat their name back to them and use it as much as possible during your conversation. It demonstrates that you’re paying attention and it makes the conversation feel more personal. Plus, it might help you remember it next time you see them. 
  7. Shut up. Let the other person talk. Ask them questions. Take it all in. “When you talk, you are only repeating what you know. When you listen, you may learn something new.” — The Dalai Lama
  8. Treat yourself. Making new friends is great, but can zap your energy. Go have some dessert in your hotel room, alone. In Miami, one of my colleagues “made it rain” business cards because he had collected over 50. Celebrate!
  9. Volunteer with ADRP! Honestly, the best way to make connections. Sign up now!
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