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Executive Networking: Post-Event Secrets the Pros Won't Tell You

Post-event executive networking

Post-event executive networking

Executive Networking: Post-Event Secrets the Pros Won't Tell You


How to Network Networking Etiquette Tips for Professionals by Kara Ronin

Title: How to Network Networking Etiquette Tips for Professionals
Channel: Kara Ronin

Executive Networking: Post-Event Secrets the Pros Won't Tell You (Or Maybe They Just Forgot To)

Okay, let's be honest. "Executive Networking." The words themselves conjure up images of sleek suits, lukewarm canapés, and forced smiles. We've all been there, right? You schmooze, you exchange business cards, you make vague promises to "connect soon." But what really happens after the hors d'oeuvres are gone and the event organizers turn off the lights? That's where the actual work… and the real secrets… begin. And that, my friends, is what we're diving into today.

This isn’t some fluffy article about how to wear the perfect tie or how to "work the room." We're talking Executive Networking: Post-Event Secrets the Pros Won't Tell You. The gritty stuff. The stuff they should tell you, but probably won't, because, well, it's not as glamorous. Prepare to have your networking world rocked (or at least, mildly jostled).

The Aftermath: Debris and Opportunity

The immediate post-event period is a glorious mess. You’ve got a stack of business cards thicker than a phone book (remember those?) and a head full of vague memories. This is where things go sideways… or where they take off.

Secret #1: The "Thank You, But Don't Expect a Call Back" Blacklist

Okay, this isn't a hard blacklist, like a government thing. More like a mental one. Let’s say you meet a guy with a killer LinkedIn profile. He's VP of Something-or-Other, looks impressive, talks the talk. Swaps cards. You follow up, a week later, with a personalized email referencing something specific you chatted about. Crickets. Radio silence. Welcome to the unspoken VIP section of the "Didn't Really Mean It" club.

Look, it happens. People are busy. People over-promise. But figure out who is likely to ghost you before you waste your precious time. Analyze who you've already connected with and see if you can find some common threads. Did you actually have a meaningful conversation? Or were you just trading platitudes? (It's okay if it was the latter, just don't expect miracles.)

The Unofficial Data Point: I had a networking event last year, a big one. Got a bunch of cards. Spent days crafting personalized follow-up emails. Maybe 10% responded. And of that 10%, maybe one or two resulted in anything tangible. Talk about a time-sink! Lesson learned: Prioritize your energy. Don’t blindly spam.

Secret #2: The LinkedIn Dance of Death (and Life!)

LinkedIn is the digital water cooler of the professional world. And the post-networking period is where the real LinkedIn drama unfolds. Connect requests, endorsements galore, and, of course… the dreaded "I noticed you viewed my profile" notification.

Here’s the thing. Connecting with people on LinkedIn isn't enough. It's the equivalent of saying "Hi" in a crowded room. The real work is in cultivating those connections. And that doesn't mean spamming them with your company's latest webinars.

The Anti-Tip: Avoid the copy-paste connection request. Seriously, please. Take 30 seconds to personalize it. Mention something specific you discussed at the event, or their work, or a shared interest (LinkedIn is, after all, a giant database of shared information…use it!). Be genuine. People smell generic a mile away.

The Flip Side: LinkedIn can be a powerful tool. If used correctly. Post thoughtful content. Engage with other people's posts. Be a contributor to the conversation, not just a lurker.

Secret #3: The "Information Gathering" Phase (And Why It's Crucial)

Remember those conversations you had? Those fleeting moments of shared humanity (hopefully)? Now's the time to put those memories to work. Before you send that follow-up, do your homework.

  • Dig into LinkedIn (Again!): What’s their role? What projects are they working on? What company are they working for?
  • Google Them (Yes, Really): See if they've given any interviews, written any blog posts, or appear in any press releases.
  • Check Their Company's Website: Does the information they gave you line up with what the company is saying? (This can reveal a lot, honestly.)

This isn't just about appearing "informed." It's about finding common ground, identifying pain points, and formulating a relevant follow-up.

Anecdote Flashback: I once met a potential client who, at the event, was very enthusiastic about their company's new software. But when I looked at their website, it was clear their efforts weren't generating the engagement they had hoped for. So, the follow-up email I sent? Focused on how my services could help them improve their performance. Landed a client.

Secret #4: The Delicate Art of the Follow-Up Email – Don't Be Annoying

Ah, the follow-up email. The bane of many networkers' existence. Here's the golden rule: don't be a pest. Don’t send daily "checking in" emails. Keep it brief, focused, and personal.

  • Reference the Conversation: Remind them of something specific you discussed.
  • Offer Value: Can you share an article, introduce them to someone, or offer a helpful insight?
  • Have a Clear Call to Action: What do you want them to do? Schedule a call? Visit your website? Be specific.
  • Don't Be Afraid to Follow Up (Once): People are busy. One email might get lost in the shuffle. But if you don't hear back after a reasonable amount of time (say, a week or two), leave it be. Sometimes the message is "no."

The Emotional Angle: Seriously, don't take it personally if you don't get a response. It's not always about you.

Secret #5: It's Not Just What You Know, But Who You Know… And What They Can Do For You

This is where networking moves from "transactional" to "transformative." Successful executive networking isn't about collecting hundreds of business cards. It’s about cultivating relationships. And that takes time, effort, and a genuine interest in other people.

How to Build Stronger Relationships:

  • Become a Connector: Introduce people to each other. This is a huge sign of respect and a great way to build your network.
  • Offer Help (Without Expecting Anything in Return): Can you provide advice, insights, or resources?
  • Stay Top-of-Mind: Share interesting articles, comment on their posts, and reach out occasionally to check in.
  • Be Genuine: People can spot a fake a mile away. Be yourself. Be authentic. Be human.

The Pain Point: It’s easy to see networking as a one-way street – how they can help you. Flip the script and think about how you can help them.

Secret #6: The "After-Action Review" (Because Even the Pros Mess Up)

Networking, like anything else in life, involves trial and error. After each event, take some time to reflect. What worked? What didn't? What could you do differently next time?

  • Review Your Contacts: Who have you connected with? Did you follow up?
  • Assess Your Approach: Were your conversations engaging? Did you ask good questions?
  • Track Your Progress: Are you seeing results? Are you making meaningful connections? If not, adjust your strategy.

The Imperfect Reality: Not every event will be a home run. You'll say the wrong thing. You'll forget someone's name. You'll get stuck in a corner talking to the wrong person. It’s all part of the process. Don't be afraid to fail. Learn from your mistakes. And keep going.

Executive Networking: Post-Event Secrets the Pros Won't Tell You – Now You Know!

So, there you have it. The (slightly messy) truth about Executive Networking: Post-Event Secrets the Pros Won't Tell You. Now, go forth and network! (But remember to follow up, and don't be a jerk.) Remember, it's about building genuine connections, offering value, and being human. The rest will (hopefully) follow. And hey, if you see me at the next event, don't expect a perfect performance. But I will try to have an actual conversation, and maybe, just maybe, I'll remember your name. If not, well, at least you'll have learned something today. Good luck!

Unlock Your Community's Potential: Executive Problem-Solving Secrets Revealed!

Tom Friel How to Network by Stanford Graduate School of Business

Title: Tom Friel How to Network
Channel: Stanford Graduate School of Business

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Let’s talk about something that can feel as awkward as a toddler trying to parallel park: Post-event executive networking. It’s that dance we all do, pretending to casually sip our sparkling water while mentally calculating the best time to swoop in and snag that corner office connection. But listen, it doesn’t have to be a chore! It can actually be…dare I say it…enjoyable and, more importantly, fruitful. And that, my friends, is what we're aiming for here. We're talking about turning those after-event handshakes into real, lasting professional relationships.

Decoding the Post-Event Executive Networking Jive

First off, let's be honest. "Networking" often feels like a dirty word. Visions of aggressive business card distribution and forced small talk dance in our heads. But post-event executive networking (we can also call it following up after networking events) is different. It's about leveraging those initial connections, and, you know, not being that guy/gal who just disappears into the ether after the hors d'oeuvres are gone.

So, what makes post-event networking executive? Well, it’s about playing the long game. It's not just about accumulating contacts, it's about building relationships that can have a significant impact on your career. Think: mentorship opportunities, strategic partnerships, and access to information you wouldn't find on the internet.

The Golden Hour: Immediately After the Event

Look, momentum is your best friend. Seriously. That buzz of the event? That's your superpower. Don’t let it fizzle out. This is where the rubber meets the road, and where a lot of people, ahem, miss the mark.

  • The Quick Hit: If you had a genuine connection, immediately send a personalized LinkedIn request. Don't just blast out a generic message either. Reference the conversation you had. Something like, “It was great chatting about [topic] at the conference! Would love to connect and continue the conversation.” Boom! Instant recall and, ideally, connection.
  • The Business Card Blitz (with a Twist): For those of us still rocking the business card game (and I still am, 'cause, you know, old habits and all that), write a quick note on the back of the card. Something simple, like "Great chat about [topic] – let's connect!" or "Loved hearing about your work on [project]." This shows you actually listened. It's a small thing, but trust me, it makes a huge difference.
  • The Social Media Snippet: If it makes sense (and if you feel comfortable), share something positive about the event or someone you met on social media (LinkedIn is king here, of course). Tag them, of course! This is an easy way to extend the conversation and keep you top-of-mind.

The Follow-Up Funnel: Crafting the Perfect Message (and Beyond!)

Okay, the immediate frenzy is over. Now it's time to get strategic. This is where the real magic happens. But please, PLEASE, no generic, copy-and-paste emails. We can all spot them a mile away, and frankly, they scream "I just want something from you."

  • The Personalized Email Power-Up: Within 24-48 hours, send a follow-up email. Keep it brief. Reference your conversation and reiterate the value you bring to the table. Think about offering something first. Can you share a relevant article? Send a helpful resource? This is not about just getting something back, it's about building a relationship.
  • The Contextual Connection: Don't just connect and disappear. Start actually engaging with these new connections. Like and comment on their posts. Share their content. This is the stuff that keeps you in their orbit.
  • The Value Proposition: Remember, successful post-event executive networking isn't about what you can get. It's about what you can offer. Frame your follow-up around how you can help them, not the other way around. (Think: maximizing networking ROI, or effective follow-up strategies for success.)

Alright, let’s get real. Not every connection will be a home run. And there will be moments that make you cringe. Here’s how to navigate some of the trickiest territory in post-event executive networking:

  • The Ghosting Blues: Okay, if they don't respond, don't take it personally! Not everyone will be a good fit. Move on. Focus on the connections that are actually reciprocating.
  • The (Inadvertent) Bragging Rights Zone: Avoid talking only about yourself. No one likes a one-way conversation. Ask questions, show genuine interest. (It's a key for building strong professional relationships).
  • The Instant Sell: Resist the urge to pitch your services or products immediately. It's a turn-off. Build the relationship first. Then, and only then, can you discuss what you do in a way that feels natural and helpful.

Anecdote Time: The Power of the Non-Sales Pitch

Alright, so I went to a conference a while back, and there was this guy, let's call him Mark. He totally got it. We chatted at the coffee break, and he mentioned his interest in AI in marketing. I work in tech, so I naturally had some resources I thought would be helpful.

Instead of just offering a sales pitch, I emailed him a few days later, sharing a couple of really useful articles on AI trends. I didn’t ask for anything in return. Months later, when a project popped up that perfectly fit his skills and his company’s needs, he reached out to me. The articles? He still had them saved. That, my friends, is the power of offering real value. It proves the point of networking event follow-up best practices.

The Long Game: Nurturing Your Network for the Win

Post-event executive networking isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. It's about cultivating relationships over time.

  • The Regular Touch-Base: Schedule regular check-ins with your key connections. A quick coffee, a call, or even a strategic email can go a long way.
  • The Reciprocal Approach: Be a giver as much as a taker. Offer to help your connections when you can. Share opportunities, offer advice, introduce them to other valuable people.
  • The Long-Term Strategy: Think about your network as a resource that you can leverage over many years. It's an investment in your future. These are networking strategies tailored for long-term gains.

The Unconventional Angle (and Why it Works) : Human-First Approach

Look, let's be real. We're all human. We crave connection. And sometimes, being a little…unexpected…can be a huge advantage.

  • The Quirky Email: Maybe you bonded over a shared interest in [insert a random hobby, like collecting antique thimbles or competitive bread-making]. Sending a link to a related article or an invite to a local event can make a memorable impact.
  • The Handwritten Note (Yes, Seriously!): In a digital world, a handwritten note stands out like a unicorn at a petting zoo. Send a thank-you note or a congratulatory message. It's personal, it's thoughtful, and it shows you actually care. (This is effective follow-up in action.)
  • The Vulnerability Factor: Don't be afraid to be authentic. Share your wins and your struggles. People connect with real people.

Wrapping it Up: Beyond the Business Card - The Real Reward

So, there you have it. Post-event executive networking – demystified. It's not about awkward small talk or forced interactions; it’s about making genuine connections, offering value, and cultivating relationships. This is executive networking for career advancement.

And listen, it’s worth the effort. Building a strong network is an investment in your career, providing support, guidance, and access to opportunities you wouldn’t have otherwise.

Stop seeing it as a chore and start seeing it as an opportunity for connection, growth, and even, dare I say it, FUN. Because, let’s be honest, making those meaningful connections is a lot more rewarding than just collecting business cards.

Now go forth, connect, and conquer! You got this!

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INSIDER TRICK At Networking Events do this to get noticed by Beyond The Blueprint Podcast

Title: INSIDER TRICK At Networking Events do this to get noticed
Channel: Beyond The Blueprint Podcast

Executive Networking FAQs: The After-Party Edition (aka, What They DON'T Tell You)

1. Okay, the event's OVER. Now what? I feel…awkward.

Awkward? Honey, welcome to the club! The second the lights dim and the last canapé disappears, the real game begins. Forget those smooth operators who vanish with a perfectly curated follow-up plan. The pros? They’re already strategizing. But here’s the dirt: *most* of them still feel awkward! The difference? They’ve learned to mask it (or embrace it with practiced nonchalance). Think of it like a post-divorce regrouping. You’ve survived the main event…now you're left picking up the pieces and avoiding eye contact with the ex. The “now what” is the MOST important part. It’s where the *real* connections are made (or broken).

2. Follow-up: Email, LinkedIn, Carrier Pigeon? Help!

Alright, let's be real. Carrier pigeon? Probably not. Unless you're after some seriously eccentric points. Here's the deal about follow-up: it's *not* a one-size-fits-all situation. I once had this spectacularly failed networking experience...I met this CEO. Super important, corner office, the whole shebang. I made *some* connection... thought I did, anyway. Sent a personalized LinkedIn message. Nada. Zero. Crickets. Turns out, he's the type who’s digitally allergic to LinkedIn. Found this out MONTHS later, through a mutual friend at a dog show (true story). So, learn your audience. Did you exchange numbers? Text them (casually). Was it a very formal affair? Email (but keep it short and not generic). And NEVER, EVER spam them with your company’s latest press release! That's the networking equivalent of a first date where you talk ONLY about yourself. Ugh.

3. What if I completely blanked on someone’s name? (Or, worse, *misremembered* it?)

Oh, honey, we’ve ALL been there. The panic that sets in when you realize you’ve been calling someone “Brenda” all evening, and their name is actually “Benedict”? *Embarrassing*, to say the least. Here's the truth: a little humility goes a LONG way. If you've *already* blundered, the best approach is often honesty. “I’m so sorry! I’m terrible with names. Was your name…Benedict? (Praying to the networking gods at this point).” If you've just *met* them, slyly glance at their name tag (if they have one) or subtly ask a colleague to reintroduce you. (But don’t make this a habit. And don't do it if you think they'll notice. That's a whole other level of awkward.) The important thing is to NOT make it a big deal.

4. How do I turn a casual chat into a *real* opportunity? (Without sounding like a desperate salesman?)

Ah, the million-dollar question! The secret isn't to pitch, pitch, pitch. It's to *listen*. Seriously. Actually *listen* to what the other person is saying. (I know, revolutionary!). Find common ground. Shared hobbies, mutual friends, even a shared groan about the terrible speaker. I met a Venture Capitalist at an event last year. Was my heart thumping: yes. Did I have my pitch perfectly polished: also, yes. But instead of blasting him with my startup’s potential, I asked about *him*. Turns out, he was obsessed with vintage motorcycles. I am too. (I know a lot about vintage motorcycles, a skill that would have been useless on a desert island.) We talked bikes for twenty minutes, then, very casually, I mentioned my company. Boom. Opportunity. Relationship first; need second. (Unless you need to use the bathroom, of course...then, bathroom first. Networking later)

5. How do I gracefully escape a conversation I'm no longer interested in? (Or, you know, *dying* of boredom?)

Escape artistry is a *critical* networking skill. Master it, and you’ll conquer the world! The key is to be polite but firm. My go-to: “This has been a lovely chat! I need to grab a quick refill [of whatever], but it was great to meet you!” Or, “I’m so sorry, I absolutely have to say hello to [insert name of someone across the room, doesn't have to actually exist]. But it was a pleasure speaking with you!” The “excuse” can be anything: a call of nature, the promise of a long-forgotten promise of meeting someone important, the need to grab a cocktail, find some air to breathe - anything! If all else fails, deploy the “I've got one of those meetings where I have to go right now or look extremely unprofessional". This creates an immediate sense of urgency, but it’s a nuclear option. Use it sparingly.

6. What about those post-event "parties" or after-parties? Worth it or just for the overly-enthusiastic?

After-parties...ah, the Wild West of networking. They can be golden opportunities, or complete train wrecks. It *really* depends. Are you tired? Have you drunk a little too much Prosecco? Your judgment goes right out the window. Is the after-party directly connected to the initial event? Is the mood celebratory? Good. Network. Is everyone you would actually *want* to talk to there? Are you prepared to see people at their worst? Be aware of the potential for bad decisions at after-parties. (I once saw a very senior exec do the Macarena at a tech conference after-party. *Cringe*). If you're up for it, and you're still feeling relatively sharp, then go for it! But know your limits. Knowing yourself is key.

7. What if I feel like I bombed the event? Can I recover?

Honey, we *all* bomb sometimes. One networking event doesn’t define your career! I've had events where I felt like I tripped over every available banana peel! But guess what? The world keeps spinning. Did you make a few mistakes? Fine. Learn from them. Identify the weaknesses. Were you tongue-tied? Practice your elevator pitch. Did you over-indulge? No more free bar for you! Don't dwell on the negatives. Focus on what you *can* control: your next step. Send that follow-up email. Connect with a colleague to review your performance. The real pros don't just win. They are always learning and adapting and trying new strategies.


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