This week at Springboard, we’re looking forward to attending the MII Cork Ball on Saturday, 23 March. Events like this are a great way to combine a night out with a little networking and we’ve put together five tips to help you make connections.

1. MEET SOMEONE NEW

Be confident, be yourself and also do a bit of homework on which connections make sense for you.

It’s also helpful if you prepare a few easy answers to frequently asked questions such as:

• What do you do?
• What does your company do?
• What are you working on at the moment?

2. POST ON SOCIAL IN ADVANCE OF THE EVENT

LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook — push out on social media that you are going to the event, in advance. Include hashtags that have been created for the event or tag the relevant parties, so those attending, that may not follow you, can see your post when searching the handle or hashtag.

3. DON’T FORGET BUSINESS CARDS

It’s something we always forget… especially when it’s most needed. Add it to your checklist — along with your phone, wallet and keys — before you head out the door. They are a great way to share your details with people you meet so that they can connect with you later on social media.

4. JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Whether it is offline or online, make sure to join the conversation and remember to listen! Don’t do all the talking — let the other person speak.

Almost every event has a hashtag now (only use a hashtag for Twitter and LinkedIn, not Facebook). If they don’t have one, take a look and see what other people are using, or you can use the organiser’s or event’s handle.

5. FOLLOW UP THE NEXT DAY

Reach out and connect on LinkedIn to someone you met, follow them on Twitter or give their page a like on Facebook. Once you’re connected, you can engage with their posts and show your interest.

If you want to learn more and add to your five tips for networking at events visit here.

If you want to amplify your brand’s profile, contact ciara@springboardcommunications.ie