Speed networking (or speed business meeting) is a meeting format designed to accelerate business contacts, generally with a bell. Primarily, the practice involves multiple people that gather in a single space in order to exchange information.
Speed networking – scary right? Yes I agree.
But it’s certainly good training for thinking on your feet, having fun, and speaking fast! And if by doing it over and over in one evening, you find the balance of not coming across overly humble, or overly salesy, then it’s worth the experience. It’s time efficient, you can make lots of new contacts fast, and who knows – it could be the start of something beautiful!
In fact, if you are planning on doing any business networking – the attitude you go with is so important.
Still afraid of speed networking?
I know – I have been there and done it. I actually have met some great connections at a speed networking event. Once you get over the awkwardness, it’s really fun (and kind of efficient). The real magic comes with the follow up.
Some simple tips on making the most out of speed networking:
1. Smile – it’s ok to stumble over your words, and mess up – people wont judge you as much as you think
2. Get their details – ask for people’s business cards – and bring yours in case people ask for theirs
3. Connect with people on LinkedIn afterwards – and include a personalized message with the connection request
4. Look people up after, and tailor your follow up based on not only what you remember them saying, but what you can discover from their online profiles
5. Enjoy it and have fun – the people you meet at this event could be your future friend, client or strategic partner, but in the beginning, they are just another warm human to connect with.
