Networking Opportunities: The Startup Grind Conference

Whether you just started a new business or have a long-standing brand that you’re passionate about, it’s important to get the word out about your company and improve your network of contacts across industries. When you head out to a business event such as the iconic Startup Grind Conference, keep these best networking practices in mind to make the best impression and build long-lasting connections.

Prepare Yourself for Networking – You Never Know What People You’ll Meet

One of the best networking opportunities comes in conference attendees. There will be professionals, potential customers, clients, and investors. Get prepared. Networking doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and even experienced professionals can use a brush-up before the big conference. Practice a short delivery of your story and brand mission. Pay attention to your facial features and gestures. Smile, use good eye contact and only use natural gestures. Don’t be overly dramatic when discussing your brand, but do use authentic gestures where appropriate. Wear custom business casual clothes for work that make you feel comfortable. Keep your body language relaxed but confident. Stand up straight, avoid crossing your arms, and have your best handshake ready.

The Venue and Vibe Present a Unique Opportunity

The location, agenda, and other activities at a conference are important in determining your networking approach. Some conferences, like the Startup Grind, include social events that will encourage natural, relaxed interaction that helps you build your network with ease. Keep your approach to sharing your business low-key for a conference like this, and it will go a long way. You don’t have to be pushy or forceful in discussing your brand. Your passion will shine through in your genuine interactions with others.

Focus on People, Not Products or Services

As you are interacting with others, keep in mind that the people behind the brand are important. Don’t focus solely on the brand (no matter how big, well-known, or awesome it is). Consider that the people you’re talking to likely had a role in establishing, building, or continuing the business’s success, so they will have a story about their personal relationship with the brand. Find out what has driven them, what they care about, and what made them want to help this remarkable brand succeed. Everyone has distinct experiences that help shape who they are and what they have achieved. Recognize and embrace contacts as people first, and you’ll quickly establish a rapport that will encourage strong connections over time. Make an effort to listen to people, and your consideration will make a lasting impression.

Genuine Interactions Create Golden Opportunities

Network with people in industries that you feel comfortable with, but make being genuine in your conversations a priority. In today’s world, too few people are genuine in their interactions, instead they are creating personas or using calculated sales strategies to network. Those you meet at the conference will likely find it refreshing if you are genuinely interested in their story and their brand. Be genuine about your own business, too. Share what compelled you to become an entrepreneur, or what idea inspired or motivated you to build your brand. Show authentic respect for the people you meet, and it will be returned.

View Networking as a Tool for Helping Others

When you set out to mingle with others at the conference, don’t go in with the mindset of honing in on what they can do for you. Instead, consider how you could help the other person. Do you have contacts that your new contact could benefit from meeting? Do you have information or resources that your new acquaintance would find interesting or beneficial? People can quickly detect those who are only in it for themselves, and this can turn them off of genuine conversation and interaction. If you think of how you can help another entrepreneur or conference attendee, your words and actions will resonate in the mind of your new contact and be likely to help you in the future. Make sure to follow through with anything you’ve offered, whether it’s to send a link in an email, set up a meeting with another person, or any other to-do.

More Isn’t Always Better: Opt for Quality Over Quantity

Be honest—there are hundreds of people attending the conference, and there’s no way you’re going to network with all of them. It’s better to have made a few solid connections than to have dozens of fleeting interactions that make no real impact. Seek out the contacts who would appear to be mutually beneficial and who most interest you, and don’t let your networking be dictated by making a massive number of new contacts.

Remember to Exchange Contact Information

Keep your networking running smoothly by getting the person’s contact information (and sharing yours) as the conversation wraps up. Keep your phone charged so you can easily import new contacts, but also have a backup plan. The building, venue, or area you’re in may have spotty connectivity, which could be a pitfall if you are only relying on your device. Instead, make sure you have professional custom company notebooks and logo pens on hand to jot down contact information if needed.

Get Ready to Build Your Network

Toss your favorite custom business bag or professional backpack on your shoulder, and get ready to meet new people! The Startup Grind Conference offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn, discover, and network. Use the best networking practices to make new business relationships and build on your success.