I recently attended an amazing networking event in Washington D.C. hosted by Jennifer Schaus. During the event, I had a chance to meet some really interesting people in the government contracting space.

At some point in your career, you will attend networking events to meet customers or colleagues. Events are the best way to meet like-minded individuals and learn more about the government contracting industry.

Here are a few tips that I use to build relationships at events:

1. Be Yourself

When it comes to networking, it’s important to avoid sounding like a salesman. Don’t pitch your company and then stand there in silence. People are interested in learning about your story as well as your business.  Your personality is easier to remember than your business’ name and services.

2. Set Goals

Before you go to an event, write down a couple of goals you want to accomplish at the event. Nothing is worse than going to a two hour event and leave feeling like you’ve wasted your time. I like to set simple goals like, “Get a business card from each person at the event”.

3. Prepare Questions in Advance

Once you define your goals, think about questions you could ask to start conversations. Go beyond the typical, “What do you do?” or “What’s your name?”. If you want people to remember you, ask them a few creative questions.

4. Ask Open-Ended Questions

The key to gaining a person’s interest is by asking open-ended questions. During a conversation, listen to each sentence and think of open-ended questions that you can ask. Open-ended questions usually start with who, what, where, when, why and how.

5. Focus on Being Helpful

Business owners love meeting people that can offer a solution to their problems.  Look for ways in which you can help the event organizers. This will get you noticed and help you stand out.

6. Talk to Everyone

One of your goals should be to speak to everyone at the conference, including the organizers. You never know who could become a future customer or business partner.

7. Get Personal

During the event, talk about topics outside the realm of typical business related questions. Talk about your interests and ask them about theirs. Avoid asking any private questions and most people won’t be offended. If you want to be remembered, mention some of your most impressive accomplishments and ask them about theirs.

8. Follow Up

After the event is over, email each person that gave you their business card. Remind them of your services and tell them how nice it was to meet them. This can lead to referrals and new customers.

9. Send Thank You’s

Once the event is over, send the organizer a thank you for hosting the event. They work hard to put these events together and will appreciate your feedback.

10. Once Isn’t Enough

Once you find a good event become a regular.  This way people don’t forget you or your business.

What are some of your techniques for networking at events?