Join any career development workshop, hire any career coach, talk to any professional in any industry, and all of them will tell you that networking is essential to advance your career. We know networking can be intimidating, especially when imposter syndrome likes to show its ugly head.

Imposter syndrome impacts the way we see ourselves. Perhaps, networking has been a sore point for you because you feel you have no value to add. Or you may think you are not “accomplished” enough and can’t speak about your achievements with confidence. We want to prepare you for success, and we have compiled a list of dos and don’ts that will help you put your best foot forward:

DO some research beforehand. 

Try to find out who may be attending the event to identify who you might want to connect with. My favorite way to do this is by checking the event’s Eventbrite or social media page for the latest updates. Once you have gathered enough information about possible attendees, select people based on your objectives and goals for the event. Take the time to research these people’s professional backgrounds and careers to allow for seamless conversation. When you can identify talking points, you can develop a deeper connection with anyone.

DON’T cling to your alcohol. 

We know having a drink can help you feel less nervous and looser. However, be mindful of your alcohol consumption because you want to be steady on your feet and alert to any conversations you are having. Remember you are not there to take advantage of the free alcohol but to make a lasting first impression on an important network contact. 

DO prepare questions and conversation starters when approaching people at a networking event. 

Introduce a good icebreaker by complimenting the person on what they are wearing, like an interesting piece of clothing or jewelry. Or you could reference a part of the panel or a key moment at the event that you’re attending to begin your conversation. While it is important to do some preparation, it’s okay to let the conversation flow as well. 

DON’T forget about LinkedIn. 

For networking to be effective, your follow-up game needs to be strong. Connecting on LinkedIn and sending a message like, “Hi, it was great to meet you at the [insert event here]! It was so nice to chat about [something you discussed] I hope we can stay in touch! The more personalized you can make your follow up, the more likely it will be that they’ll remember you.

DO practice and refine your elevator pitch. 

An elevator pitch is your quick introduction about yourself and what you’re up to. The formula can be something like Hi, I'm [Name], I'm a [Student] studying [Your Major] at [Your College] or I'm a [Your Job Title] at [Your Company] in [Your industry], and what are you looking for at that moment. It could be to make new connections, a new job opportunity or internship, or find a software developer for a new project. Whatever it may be, a strong elevator pitch can help you be clear and effective when meeting new people.

DON’T spend too long talking to one person or group of people. 

Try to go in to meet one to three people, at least. Do what you’re comfortable with! But try not to spend all night talking to the same people. If you need a “way out,” a polite way to end the conversation is to say, “Great meeting you all, I’m going to go meet some other folks” Or you can say you need to get another drink or find the restroom. Keep it respectful, and keep it moving!

And finally, don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t get it right the first time. Or the second. We’ve certainly stumbled many times in the past. You’ll get better over time. We promise! The better you get at relationship building, the more you can open doors for yourself and learn from others.

Written by: Norhan Ahmed

Edited by: Shaunah Margaret