Networking Tips for Freelancers at Industry Events (and Building Lasting Connections)

 

Networking is a crucial part of freelancing. While online platforms and social media are great for building connections, nothing compares to the face-to-face interactions you can have at industry events. Whether you’re attending a conference, workshop, or meetup, these events provide the perfect opportunity to expand your professional network, find new clients, and learn from others in your field. But how do you make the most of these opportunities? Here are some networking tips for freelancers to help you build lasting connections at industry events.

1. Set Clear Goals Before Attending

Before you even step foot at the event, it’s important to set clear goals for what you want to achieve. Are you looking to find new clients? Connect with potential collaborators? Learn about the latest trends in your industry? Having specific objectives will help you focus your efforts and make the most of your time at the event.

For example, if your goal is to find new clients, you might prioritize attending sessions where potential clients are likely to be, or you might focus on networking during breaks and social events. If you’re looking to learn, you might spend more time attending workshops and panels. By knowing what you want to achieve, you can tailor your approach to meet your specific goals.

2. Do Your Research

Research is key to successful networking. Before the event, take some time to learn about the speakers, attendees, and sponsors. Many industry events provide a list of participants or an agenda, so use this information to your advantage. Identify people you’d like to meet and prepare a few talking points or questions that are relevant to their work. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in their expertise and makes it easier to start a conversation.

For example, if you know that a potential client or collaborator will be attending, look into their recent projects or challenges. This will allow you to approach them with informed questions or suggestions, making a stronger impression. Additionally, familiarize yourself with any trending topics or recent developments in your industry, as these can serve as excellent conversation starters.

3. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that you can use to spark interest in what you do. As a freelancer, you need to be able to explain your services quickly and clearly. Your pitch should include who you are, what you do, and what makes you unique. Practice your pitch until it feels natural, but avoid making it sound too rehearsed. The goal is to communicate your value in a way that invites further conversation.

For instance, instead of simply saying, “I’m a freelance graphic designer,” you might say, “I help brands stand out with visually compelling designs that resonate with their target audience.” This not only tells people what you do but also hints at the value you bring to the table. Be prepared to tailor your pitch depending on who you’re talking to — potential clients, collaborators, or industry peers.

4. Be Approachable and Open

Your body language and demeanor play a big role in how approachable you are. Smile, make eye contact, and be open to starting conversations with others. Don’t just wait for people to come to you; take the initiative to introduce yourself. Remember that everyone at the event is there to network, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone standing alone or joining a group discussion.

During conversations, listen actively and show genuine interest in what others have to say. Ask open-ended questions that encourage further discussion, and be mindful not to dominate the conversation. Networking is a two-way street, and showing that you’re as interested in others as you are in promoting yourself will leave a positive impression.

5. Focus on Building Relationships, Not Just Selling

While it can be tempting to use networking events as an opportunity to sell your services, it’s important to remember that successful networking is about building relationships. Instead of going in with a sales pitch, focus on getting to know people, understanding their needs, and finding ways you can help each other. Building a strong rapport can lead to long-term collaborations and referrals, which are often more valuable than a one-time sale.

For example, if you meet someone who mentions a challenge they’re facing in their business, rather than immediately offering your services, you could offer some advice or share a relevant resource. This positions you as a helpful and knowledgeable contact, making it more likely that they’ll remember you and potentially reach out for help in the future.

6. Follow Up After the Event

Networking doesn’t end when the event does. One of the most important aspects of successful networking is following up with the people you’ve met. Send a brief email or connect on LinkedIn within a few days of the event to reinforce the connection. Mention something specific you discussed at the event to jog their memory and make your message more personal.

For instance, you might say, “It was great meeting you at [Event Name]. I enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic]. I’d love to stay in touch and explore potential opportunities to collaborate.” Following up shows that you’re serious about maintaining the connection and opens the door for future interactions.

7. Leverage Social Media During and After the Event

Social media can be a powerful tool for networking before, during, and after industry events. Before the event, use platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter to connect with attendees, join event-related groups, and participate in pre-event discussions. This can help you establish connections before you even arrive, making it easier to approach people in person.

During the event, live-tweet interesting insights or share photos using the event’s hashtag. This not only helps you engage with others in real time but also increases your visibility among other attendees. After the event, use social media to maintain and strengthen the connections you’ve made. Share content, comment on posts, and continue participating in discussions related to the event or industry.

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Sources

• Dorie Clark
• Forbes
• Harvard Business Review Seth Godin
• LinkedIn Learning
• Entrepreneur