How to work a crowd

Networking is a great way to advance your career, make connections and meet new people. Standing out in a crowd can be intimidating but some preparation and planning can help you work a crowd.

Instructions

1. Research the event. Make sure you understand the dress code and the purpose of the gathering. Knowing these details will ensure you are comfortable. When trying to work a crowd, you don't want to be self-conscious.

2. Generate conversation starters beforehand. Think of three topics you can easily talk about with a wide variety of people so that you are not left standing silent.

3. Limit your time with each person you meet to under ten minutes. This will provide you with an ample opportunity to introduce yourself, make a connection and move on to someone else.

4. Make eye contact and listen when the other person is talking. Remember key details about your brief conversations so that you can introduce them into conversation later in the evening.

5. Carry food or a drink in your left hand so that your right hand is free to shake hands with new people.

Tips & Warnings

• If the event is for business, make sure you have plenty of business cards ready to hand out.

• Don't expect people to make business decisions at a social event. Follow up afterwards with a phone call or an e-mail.