GNT #40: 9 tips for navigating crowded events

read time: 4 minutes
 

I stood in a bustling room at a well-attended event last week, surrounded by potential conversations, new connections, and learning opportunities.

I was excited to be there, but also overwhelmed with the possibilities.

Who do I talk to?

Where do I go?

And, oh, where should I sit?!

[stealing away for a little photo opp moment]

Have you ever felt this way?

Perhaps you have an upcoming event this fall and feeling a little excitement (or nervous) energy about it?

There are so many benefits to attending in-person events, but without a plan and some preparation, you might miss out on the full benefits events have to offer.

Today, let's get you ready and prepared to make the most out of your next event (and truly enjoy your day!).

Here are 9 tips for navigating your next crowded event.

1. Define your WHY for attending

In the words of Stephen Covey, "Start with the end in mind."

Before you step foot in any event, what's your reason?

This could be supporting a current client, making new connections, finding solutions to a specific problem, or finding inspiration for an upcoming pivot.

Yes, you will no doubt leave any event with more ideas and connections than you anticipated going in, but zero-ing in on your WHY helps you focus when you feel overwhelmed with the possibilities. 

2. Plan your schedule

Are there multiple breakout rooms to choose from? 

Where will you park to get there with enough time to breathe and enjoy networking without being rushed?

Can you reschedule your regular meeting or do you need to duck out to lead an important meeting?

Taking the time to get ahead of issues helps you go into the event with mental clarity and calm.

3. Perfect your elevator pitch

How will you introduce yourself to new folks?

Do you feel wishy/washy about how to say it?

Write it down and practice it so it flows confidently.

If you need help, Terri Sjodin's book, "Small Message, Big Impact" lays the foundation for constructing a persuasive and clear intro.

4. Be present and approachable

This may seem like a no-brainer, but with a million thoughts running through our brains, it's sometimes tough to remember to show the body language that invites connection.

Bonus: Can you put your phone in do not disturb mode?

5. Use open-ended questions

Instead of asking questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no," ask open-ended ones.

Example: instead of, "Did you enjoy the keynote?" ask, "What were your takeaways from that keynote?"

Open-ended questions allow room for deeper conversation - and can lead to more meaningful connections.

6. Gracefully exit conversations

We've all been there - trapped in a conversation that's either run its course or just isn't relevant. It's ok to feel this way!

Practice your exit strategy. A simple, "It was great chatting with you, I hope we can connect later!" is courteous.

7. Follow-up promptly

This might seem like a no-brainer, but something that always seems to fall through the cracks once you get back to work.

Block time in your calendar within 48 hours from the event to follow-up on the new connections or conversations you've had.

8. Reflect and recharge

Events can be overwhelming and overstimulating to our senses.

After it's all over, give yourself some downtime (block the time on your calendar after the event).

It's a great opportunity to reflect on what you've learned, the connections you've made, and how you might want to change your approach in work or life in general.

9. Apply what you learned

Action breeds change.

After absorbing the many insights or new ideas from an event - prioritize them.

Start by identifying the top three actionable takeaways.

Can you draft a clear, concise action plan for each?

For instance, if you learned a new strategy, can you outline the steps to implement it within the next week?

If you've met a potential collaborator, set a definite date to brainstorm collaboration ideas.

The faster you move from learning to execution, the more momentum and tangible results you build. 

TL;DR

1. Define your WHY for attending
2. Plan your schedule
3. Perfect your elevator pitch
4. Be present and approachable
5. Use open-ended questions
6. Gracefully exit conversations
7. Follow-up promptly
8. Reflect and recharge
9. Apply what you learned

I hope to see you at an upcoming event this fall! 

I'll certainly see you in your inbox next week. 😉

Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:


1. Need some guidance on personal or professional growth? I'm here to help. It's easy to book time with me. Book a 1:1 worksession with me now.


2. Have a problem you want broken down into actionable steps to solve? Send it to me and I'll write about it.

3. Want short, but meaty tips on growth systems for profit, purpose, and life. Follow me on LinkedIn

Other things I'm diggin' this week:

What I'm listening to:

Lately I've been previewing books on my reading list through Blinkist. If they resonate, I'll listen to them or read them. Read more here about my 5 step reading process.

What's on my head:

We've been sauna-ing at 200+ degrees this fall. At those temps my ears start burning. This wool sauna hat may look dorky, but it keeps Ed's and my head cool at those high temps.

Quote I'm pondering: 

"Goals are for people who care about winning once. Systems are for people who care about winning repeatedly." - James Clear