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The need to stay connected with the local and international business community has assumed greater significance in the current times and we have seen that even without face-to-face interactions it is possible to ensure the personal connect with existing acquaintances remains strong while building new and enduring relationships. The key ingredient for a successful business networking event is the genuine bonding and exchange of views/ideas among the participants without any hidden agendas. So here are a few tips on how you as an attendee can approach such online business events.
- Attend without Expectations – When attendees are present at a business event with the intention of spending time with each other rather than making any business deals then it automatically creates a relaxed atmosphere at the event. This will enable you as an attendee to focus on just catching up with old friends/acquaintances and meeting new people without being weighed down by expectations on either side.
- Start Small – While there is a natural inclination to speak to everyone present when being a part of any online gathering (be it business or social), with respect to business events it is better to err on the side of caution and start by having conversations with a select few during each business event (during the initial months). Once you get to know more people and become a familiar face at such events then you can automatically increase your networking circle.
- Create a Personal Connect – Having conversations with fewer people enables you to have a more in-depth conversation with them. During the course of these in-depth conversations you will get to know more about them, for example their business growth stories, successes, concerns and hobbies. You make even discover mutual acquaintances and bond over common likes and dislikes, which will help in creating a more personal connection.
- Creating Opportunities – Over the course of your conversations the other person may voice out any concern they may have in relation to their business or line of work. If you realise that you are in a position to help out regarding any such concern then you can definitely go ahead and offer to help. In addition to the sense of satisfaction you get by helping others, your fellow attendees will also realise that you are genuinely committed to helping the business community grow. This increases their respect for you and makes them more inclined to associate with you.
Most importantly, just relax and enjoy having amazing conversations with amazing people.
