Networking events, whether you are a salesperson or a peer at an organization like UW-Madison, can be daunting and awkward. Having a goal of what you want to get out of the meeting is important — go in with a plan to meet a certain number of people, build upon an existing relationship, or pitch a product or service your department offers. Some ideas on goals:
• Meet three people in complementary businesses — you may be able to share ideas and refer business to each other
• Meet a well-respected expert in your industry — you may be able to further the connection by meeting and discussing ways to collaborate on projects
• Reconnect with folks you haven’t seen in a while — to keep up friendships and remind each other about your businesses