One big challenge with going to networking events is staying present and engaged. With the outside world constantly threatening to pull our attention and energy away, it’s important to create boundaries that keep you focused on the task at hand – learning and networking. If you want to maximize your experience at a networking event, be present.
Here are a few tips for setting effective boundaries so you can make the most of your time at a networking event.
Set Your Out of Office
And go fully out of the office. Don’t check your email throughout the day. Don’t schedule calls for your breaks. You can’t be fully present with possible new connections or your learning if you’re constantly connected to work and other obligations. Prep your team and clients for your absence just as you would for a vacation and fully sign off.
Get Out of Live Share Mode
Unless you’re in the breaking news media industry, you don’t need to live tweet/post/share from the event. Additionally, focusing on your posting may cause you to miss some seriously good content. Instead, take notes during presentations and post your favorite tidbits later. Speaking of…
Batch Your Posting and Sharing
Resist the urge to post on social media or send learnings emails to your team members during presentations and workshops. Instead, identify gaps in the agenda or wait until the end of the day to share your favorite pictures, videos, quotes, and learnings from the day. However, don’t do this during meal times – that’s prime networking time! Select a time when you can truly evaluate everything you have to share and put together thoughtful bits.
A final tip, review your networking event goals throughout the day to course-correct your focus and energy. Learn how to create your networking event goals here.
How do you maintain your focus during a networking event? Let me know your tips below.