7 Ways to Stand Out at Event Industry Networking Events

A library of event planning resources, hourly rates for tax advisors, and ads into luxury event planning. These items will cost you a fortune in Benjamins. But if you have the support of a strong network, you have access to these and more resources that budding event planners in New York City need. To build a helpful professional community, you need to attend a steady stream of networking events and make a good impression. In this article, we share the top tips New York City event planners need to shine at their social events.

1. Set network goals

Be prepared for any social event you want to attend. You can do this by creating a network target before replying. Ask yourself what exactly you want to get out of the networking event you want to attend. Of course, your “umbrella” reason is to grow your event planning business. However, the ways in which networking events can help you achieve this goal are as varied as the events themselves.

Networking events can help you find new and interesting venues, connect you with business decision-makers, or get you close to high-end clients. Whatever your reason for attending, Make your goals measurable and specific.

2. But make this your primary goal

Of course, you are participating in this event to grow your event planning business. you want more Useful contacts who can Recommend clients to youconnect you with the best caterers in New York City, or help you land big corporate clients. But none of these things will happen if you attend social events to pursue your own selfish goals.

What you want to achieve through the network can only happen within the framework of a community. As you know, humans are social animals and they form supportive communities with people they like and trust. Therefore, your first networking goal is to build a professional community. Likeable, trustworthy, and relationship-focused. Do these things and you can trust that the rest will fall into place.

3. Research organizers and attendees

We are about to reach an inflection point in the first quarter of 21Yingshi century, and with it, decades of digital chaos that mark our lives. Let’s say it out loud: Researching people online isn’t creepy anymore, it’s legit. In fact, this is very common.

Before the big day, do some research on the social event, its organizers, speakers, and (if possible) other attendees. Not only will you make a great impression at your event, you’ll get more out of it. What you learn will help you make a list of people you want to meet.

You might find that a speaker you’ve never heard of actually wrote a book about the destination wedding you’re passionate about. Or you might find out that another attendee just planned an event at a new speakeasy uptown, a place you were considering but heard mixed reviews about.

4. Perfect your elevator pitch—and anticipate questions

You already know that your elevator pitch is a prepared, concise speech that tells your audience who you are, what you do, and why they should care. You should practice it like Meryl Streep winning her fourth Oscar. Practicing your elevator speech is the best way to develop muscle memory, which will help you confidently recall words when your palms are sweaty.

So, practice in front of the mirror, but don’t stop there. Also, consider the follow-up questions someone might ask. Some may be wondering what got you started in event planning, What kind of success have you achieved?or the most embarrassing thing you’ve ever seen. Of course, you can’t foresee every problem. But taking the time to consider the obvious things will help you make a good impression at networking events.

5. Dress appropriately

The way you dress is your first act of nonverbal communication. However, researchers have found that the way we dress affects more than just public perception. Your fashion choice It can also have a significant impact on your behavior, cognition, hormones, and even your moral compass.

So make sure your attire, hygiene and overall style convey confidence and professionalism. You want to dress appropriately for the social events you attend. Even casual attire can be “dressed up” Relaxed yet elegant style.

6. Arrive on time

Only famous people can successfully be late. At social events, where few people know anyone else, latecomers are at a distinct disadvantage. When you’re late to a networking event, you have to push forward the conversation that’s already happening.

Almost everyone experiences at least a little bit of social anxiety and a desire to connect when attending social events. Everyone longs to not be a lonely wallflower. As a result, groups quickly formed and emotional bonds were formed as attendees breathed a collective sigh of relief. If you arrive after this initial sorting, you have a higher mountain to climb.

7. Follow up on new contacts

you will Create a stronger professional community If you follow up on new contacts. A brief “nice to meet you” message will help them remember you after the event. But you can go a step further and invite important contacts to continue the conversation over coffee or lunch. Remember, building community comes down to building relationships. Consistent friendly get-togethers will strengthen your new network.

Put your new networking skills to use at Event Planner Expo 2025

Show off your new skills with New York City’s top networking opportunities for event planners. Expo 2025 Event Planner You have the opportunity to wow thousands of event professionals with your polished elevator pitch and business casual blazer. With three days of presentations from event industry leaders, your brain will be filled with new knowledge to help you grow your events business. Buy your tickets today!