As a frequent networker, I have compiled a checklist of the Top 10 things to bring to a networking event. It is a good idea to keep a small bag with these items in your car or office so you can be prepared when attending. This will not only save time, but help you feel at ease during the night:
1) Business Cards: It seems obvious to list business cards, but it is surprising how many people arrive at a networking event without them. This is like arriving at the pool without a bathing suit; you are forced to improvise in this situation. Don’t be the networker who must write contact information on bar napkins. You should have a business card, even if you typically do not use physical business cards; it is polite to exchange cards with other contacts throughout the evening. Make sure you do not forget them at the office and bring at least 20 to any event you plan to attend. The card should make it very easy to connect with and find on social networking sites like LinkedIn and must be an accurate representation of your abilities. Even if you are in transition or a recent college graduate it is expected that you will have a business card at a networking event, so simply go to a site like www.vistaprint.com and design a basic card for the cost of shipping.
2) Altoids (or other breath freshening solution other than gum): Chicago is a culinary mecca; home to classics like deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches with onions. Don’t leave everyone in the room guessing what you had for lunch that day. Often the most subtle things about a person are the most remembered, so don’t let it be your breath become the feature that stands out. Altoids are inexpensive and will mask pretty much any lunch item. Chewing gum at a networking event is a bad idea, especially because it is hard to dispose of and looks tacky.
3) Cologne/Perfume (or other body spray): It is always a good idea to apply a few drops of cologne/perfume an hour before attending a networking event (do not overdo it; this isn’t a date). By the time of an evening event, the cologne/perfume you applied in the morning will likely have worn off, so this is a necessary refresher. I recommend purchasing a smaller, travel sized bottle of your main cologne/perfume choice to have for these occasions.
4) Tidesticks: Nothing is more frustrating than spilling wine, soy sauce ketchup or other condiments on your clothes on the day of a networking event. Not only are you unable to dry clean the clothes in time for the event, but you must venture out into public with your stains. Tidesticks are a quick, easy, and surprisingly effective stain remover for these situations. It is also a good idea to have one in your pocket on the day of a networking event as you will look like a hero offering this to someone who spills on the day of an event. They are widely available at grocery stores or Bed Bath and Beyond with 3-packs costing about $7.
5) Hand sanitizer: It is certain that you will shake a lot of hands during an evening. Everyone you shake hands with will also have touched at least 5-10 other people. It is always a good idea to wash your hands and use hand sanitizer to combat germs. Avoid applying hand sanitizer during the event so you do not appear rude, unless you will be eating. There are several pocket sized sanitizers sold at stores such as Bed Bath and Beyond and Walgreens which usually cost about $1. Bring one with you to every event.
6) Nametag: This may seem like a surprising thing to bring with you because every event usually provides some form of nametag at the door. The problem is, these nametags are not consistent and many times are stickers which will not cling to suit fabrics. It is also common to show up and find that your name has been misspelled or your company details are incorrect. Rather than spending the whole night explaining the discrepancy, bring a simple nametag that attaches with an alligator clip. This way, you will always send the right message with your backup. You can find nametags are office supply stores such as Staples or Office Max.
7) Pen: You will need to take some notes at every event. It is a good idea to bring a reliable pen with you rather than having to look unprepared by asking others to lend you one. You don’t need to buy an expensive brand, just make sure you have one handy.
8) Portfolio/Notepad: Bringing a nice portfolio is very helpful at an event. You will likely need a place to store notes, resumes, business cards, etc. The portfolio is a reflection of your professionalism, and is much better than folding papers and stuffing into random pockets. Moleskin notepads, available at major booksellers such as Borders and Barnes and Noble, fit nicely into pockets and are a cost effective solution at $7/each.
9) Cash: This is typically an area I struggle with, as I am a Credit/Debit card user by nature. There is nothing wrong with having plastic as your primary method of purchasing, it just never fails that you will need an extra $20 for valet parking, cash bars, tipping and other incidental expenses that occur on the evening of an event. It is a good idea to be prepared rather than searching for the nearest ATM.
10) Copy of train schedule: Whether you take the Metra, bus or L Train, it is always a good idea to know how to get to and from an event so you can plan your schedule accordingly. Nothing is worse than being 5 min late for a commuter train and having to wait for an hour at union Station. Carry a small copy of the train schedule or call the CTA help line 312.836.7000 if you need to know how to navigate the city.
Other than a positive attitude, what are some tangible things that are missing from my list? Feel free to comment away and add to this list. Happy networking!
Comments
Great post Jeff!!!
Good reminders of what we should know. Choose the pen you take carefully. People watch you write things down, and a junkie hotel freebie doesn't look good. If you have a business to promote, have a few of your company pens so you can offer one to someone who hasn't read your helpful article. Otherwise, choose a pen which looks classy to go with your quality folder.
Pauline / History & Landmarks Examiner
Great reminders, except for the Cologne/Perfume. Perfume is no longer acceptable at work, especially healthcare, is annoying to some, and downright harmful causing asthma for many.
Theresa
Love this thoughtful list, Jeff! Great ideas, and I also loved Pauline's added suggestion of a nice pen - it's so true that the attention is in the details!
I'd also like to add, if I may...a prepared elevator pitch/introduction - effectively introducing yourself and engaging others is crucial!
Keep up the great work!
Best to you,
Barbara Lopez
The Elevator Pitch Coach
www.brightfarm.com
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