How To Be A Fabulous Networker At Tech Events

After being forced into a social bubble in 2020, the return of IT conferences has proven to be a breath of fresh air for those who’d like to mingle and learn from fellow experts in the fast-paced tech industry.

Networking can be tricky to nail, especially at tech conferences in Dubai and Las Vegas that attract hundreds of excited delegates from all over the world. Added to this, after being in isolation for so long, our social skills may have become a bit rusty.

But not to worry; we have a few insider tips with the help of which you can completely master the art of building industry connections, sealing deals, and nailing collaborations at upcoming IT and tech events in 2022!

Tip #1: Do Your Homework

We know this sounds like a lot, but hear us out. Prepping for the event beforehand will help you to get the most out of your participation, and if you end up getting lucky, you may also be able to bring in a few clients to your business.

Many tech conferences offer packages that include early access to their attendee lists. By going through it, you will have an idea of who’s coming to the event.

This gives you a major advantage against your competitors, all of whom will probably be looking to build connections with industry professionals you’re interested in. We suggest that you scan the list and make a mental note of the people you’d like to meet. You can also consider looking up their projects online so that later on, you can easily walk up to them and initiate a conversation.

Tip #2: Have Great Conversation Starters

Talking to a group or walking up to an industry leader can be scary and intimidating. However, with the right ice-breakers, you can not only break through the awkwardness but also make a lasting impression.

Keep in mind that you already have a lot in common with other attendees since they are at the same technology event as you are! You can consider initiating a conversation around the highlights of a keynote or panel discussion that took place just before the networking session. Or, you can frame a conversation around the event experience, such as, “isn’t this venue amazing?” or “is this your first time at this conference?” and take it from there.

Tip #3: Show Active Interest

Don’t simply focus on leaving business cards or on getting to the bigshots! Yes, both of these are extremely important at IT conferences, but it is also crucial that you exhibit interest in other people and come off as a warm, attentive listener. That’s rule no. 1 of networking at tech events!

Be passionate about forming alliances and listen to what others have to say. Ask them follow-up questions so that they understand that you are actually serious about building a long-lasting, professional relationship. Try to get to know more about the other person and refrain from sounding too “salesy.”

Remember, the golden rule is to shift the focus of the conversation to the other person’s preferences and undertakings. After warming up to them, you can slowly ease the conversation towards your ideas and ask for their takes on them. If you strike gold, make plans to discuss things further, probably setting up an evening business meeting at the nearest restaurant after the event.

We hope that with these few tips, you are able to do networking right at the tech events that are lined up in 2022. These will help you to connect with people on a deeper level and make a memorable impact on the attendees you wish to impress!