Been invited to a networking event - elevator pitch hints and tips?

hoffage123

Hi,

I have been invited a networking event with some key decision makers in the industry I wish to establish myself in. Prior to this I have been getting experience here and there within the industry on a casual basis, so I am really excited.

But I am also very nervous and worried about stuffing things up! It is a small industry so I really want to be sure that I am making the best impression. Apparently everyone invited will get 5 minutes each with a decision maker, and will have to tell them what is so special about them that they deserve to get on their regular ad-hoc rota and then hand them a copy of my CV.

I haven't been to a networking event since I left Uni back in 2004 - I'm not as introverted as I used to be, but I am still a bit worried about being overshadowed by the more confident types.

Does anyone have any hints or tips on how I can make the most of this opportunity?

brightonman123

for starters, get some free contact cards done (search for moo.com on facebook!)..

prepare yourself with some soundbites, a folder of work samples, and ASK questions- i am sure people love to talk about themselves / business!

show an interest, and offer something DIFFERENT ? BETTER ? CHEAPER !

Notmyrealname

I've been to a few of these and I no longer do them. You must resist your urge to want to shove your fist assertively into the middle of their smug faces and by god do they like to talk about themselves and not listen to you and when they do you the honour of talking to you you can feel the condescension. To me it was a parody of a comedy sketch that Harry Enfield did in the 80's and that thought was the only thing that kept a smile on my face.

Best of British.

hoffage123

Thanks guys ... I am going to do my best to swot up before the event. I do have some business cards that I will take with me, and I have brushed up my CV so it looks good. Just need to work on my spiel now ...

Acc72

Notmyrealname wrote: »

and by god do they like to talk about themselves and not listen to you and

This is the key.

If you decide to go, just ask a couple of questions and the "expert" will willingly give you their opinion for the next 5 minutes !

Even if you do not know whop they will be until the day, a general question such as : what do you think of the economy, how are things in your market or whatever will see you through.