3 Steps to Make Business Networking a Breeze
Ed Darling
5 min read
What you’ll learn:
- Where to find (and connect) with your ideal audience.
- How to create a business networking plan.
- My top ‘CIA’ tip to make networking conversations flow.
Social Networks VS. Business Networking.
Nowadays, we might think of networking as posting pictures for likes, or connecting with people on LinkedIn.
While online platforms have their place (and hey, I squeeze as much networking juice as possible out of LinkedIn!) true networking, the kind that yields real results, still often happens face-to-face.
If you’re looking for your next role, client, or business partnership, stepping out of your comfort zone and into real-world opportunities is essential.
Business networking is all about leveraging connections to create opportunities — and the more people you meet, the more doors you open.
But that raises some challenges:
- Where do you find the right people?
- What should you say?
- And how do you make a lasting impression?
Good networking comes down to three essential steps: location, lists, and listening.
We’ll explore each of these — then I’ll share a quick technique from the “CIA” method to help you conquer that tricky first hello!
1. Business Networking by Location
Business networking is like fishing: you need to be in the right place to meet the right people. To network effectively, it’s essential to find where your ICP’s (ideal client personas) gather.
First, consider who you want to connect with:
- What industries or professions are they in?
- What role / seniority levels do they hold?
- Where do they gather for networking events?
- What are their interests?
Using tools like Meetup, Eventbrite, or LinkedIn, you can search for local events, conferences, or industry shows that match your target audience.
Sometimes it’s worth sticking your social hat on, jumping into the mix, and taking a chance on a variety of events. Or, if you know where to find the right people, and can have a more targeted approach.
Either way, remember that confident networking starts with having clear goals in mind.
Ready to speak with confidence?
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2. Business Networking with a Plan
Time is valuable, so wandering into events aimlessly without a clear purpose can feel like a waste. To maximise the impact of your efforts, it’s important to arrive with a plan.
This could include:
- A list of goals — such as meeting three potential clients or collaborators.
- A cheat sheet — conversation starters or topics that align with your objectives.
- A clear CTA — to connect on LinkedIn, exchange emails, or book calls.
(Tip: Create a QR code which links to your website or LinkedIn profile, then save this as your phone’s screensaver. It saves any awkward typing in emails, or searching for names.)
While you’re at the event, use your goals to guide conversations. Discuss your ambitions, challenges, and the types of people you hope to connect with. You’ll be surprised at how many valuable connections you can make simply by being upfront about your intentions.
If the person you’re speaking with can’t help directly, they might know someone who can — and they’ll likely be happy to make an introduction, especially if you’ve listened to them first.
3. Business Networking by Listening
One of the most critical aspects of successful business networking is listening.
People enjoy talking about themselves, their goals, and their challenges. By giving them your full attention, you quickly build trust, rapport, and reciprocity.
At networking events, aim to spend 80% of your time listening and 20% talking. Use open-ended questions such as:
- “What inspired you to attend this event?”
- “What challenges are you facing in your business?”
- “Who are you hoping to connect with?”
By showing genuine interest in others, you create opportunities for deeper connections.
When it’s your turn to share, you’ll have built the trust needed to speak confidently about your own needs.
4. Business Networking with Energy
It’s common to feel self-conscious when networking at business events, but don’t let that dampen your enthusiasm to meet new people.
Energy is currency — everyone wants to connect with someone who brings good energy. Enthusiasm and positivity are contagious, making you someone people want to be around, and get to know.
Think of the type of person you’d love to meet:
They’re probably smiling, excited to engage with you, and fully present. That’s the energy you should bring to every interaction.
You don’t need to be the life of the party; just show up with warmth, enthusiasm, and the willingness to embrace those initial, sometimes awkward, introductions!
Speaking of which, let’s help you with that…
5. Business Networking with a 'CIA' Introduction
You’ve arrived at the event, grabbed a coffee, and now you’re mingling with the crowd. But how do you break the ice without resorting to a cringe-worthy opener?
Here’s a trick I learned from the “CIA” for making a great introduction:
C — Compliment
I — Introduce yourself
A — Ask a question
Here’s an example:
“Hi, I just wanted to say I love your hat! My name’s Ed, by the way. What brings you here today?”
Done well, this approach helps you introduce yourself in a warm, confident, and engaging manner.
Some tips:
- Compliment something specific and non-physical, like an accessory or something they’re holding.
- Find something you genuinely appreciate — forced compliments feel awkward.
- Practice sharing compliments more often to make it second nature!
Ready to Breeze Through Business Networking?
Networking success doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of preparation, listening, and clear communication.
If you want to improve your networking skills and build relationships that last, start by attending events with a clear plan. Be present, listen actively, and speak confidently when the moment is right.
If you want an even more in-depth guide to preparing some key communication skills, check out our article on communicating your value.
Then, when you’re ready, explore our public speaking training options.
To your business networking (and speaking) success,
Ed