Tips For Organizing A Successful Networking Event

You already know that networking is vital to your business, and probably attend networking events with some frequency. But have you ever hosted a networking event yourself? Here are a few reasons why you definitely should organize such an event and the best tips so your networking event is a smash!

Why you should organize a networking event?

The first benefit you will get is that more people will get to know you, your company and your products or services. If you have been marketing your business diligently in a number of platforms (both on and offline) then you know just how hard it is to get new people interested in what you have to offer. A face-to-face event might just be the thing your marketing strategy needs to convert people from interested into paying customers. As an added bonus they will get to meet others in the community you are creating.

Second, it’s an excellent way of making a great first impression. When you host an event you will want to make sure that everything is perfect. This means that your office space is pristine, that the atmosphere is just right, and that attendees are well entertained and taken care of.

Third, it shows that you are interested in the community and want to be an active part of it.

Ok, so now you are ready to start organizing the event itself. First you want to select a great location to host the event. You will then want to establish who your intended audience is. Maybe it’s an event for Small Business Owners or maybe it is a Women in Tech mixer, etc. With this audience in mind it's easier for you to spread the word.

This brings us to our next tip: Promote Your Event! A successful networking event is only successful if people actually show up and, you know, network. Add a blurb in your regular newsletter telling people about your upcoming event, post about it on all your social media channels. Make sure you add a link where guests can RSVP, this makes it more likely that they will show up.

Next you need to set the event location up for maximum mingling. We suggest playing some soft background music and providing people with areas where they can sit and chat. The idea is to make it as easy as possible for people to have a chat over snacks and drinks. Said snacks and drinks should be abundant and great, remember that people will always remember terrible food so make sure you get the right catering service.

Finally don’t forget to follow up with everybody on your RSVP list to get some feedback about their experience.

About Andrés Sanjose

Andrés Sanjose is a writer and editor based in Guatemala. He previously lived in Berlin for 10 years where he witnessed the birth and amazing evolution of the Virtual Office phenomenon, while working as a freelancer in the german capital. He is very interested in what the future holds for this exciting industry and loves to write about it.