As a Brand Strategist who has been working with women entrepreneurs and hosting networking events since 2011, I have seen first-hand the significance of making an impact at networking events… not just with your brand, but with your presence. Over the years, I've witnessed the transformative power of harnessing the power of your personal brand and channeling it into how you show up at networking events, and how that helps ambitious women build their dreams and create a larger impact in the world. And that’s what I want to share with you today!

In my journey, I've seen a common thread that intertwines successful entrepreneurs – their ability to leave a lasting impression at networking events. 

Whether you're attending the same online or in-person networking event each month or dipping your toes in diverse waters, there's always a way to leave a mark – and it all starts with your brand. In this blog post, I will share valuable insights on how to effectively showcase your personal brand in order to create meaningful connections at networking events.

Your Brand: More Than Just Visuals

Now, let's dispel one of the most common misconceptions I hear: branding is just about pretty logos, color palettes and fonts. 

Yes, a well-designed logo or a beautiful website certainly contributes to your credibility online, but your brand goes beyond that. It's an experience, an energy, an embodiment of your values, story and perspectives – in essence, YOU.

As a service-based entrepreneur, you are the face of your brand, and it accompanies you wherever you go, including networking events. These events provide a platform where you can embody your brand, leaving a lasting impression through the experiences you create.

The Foundations of Your Brand

When you attend networking events, your brand visuals take a backseat, as you find yourself face-to-face with potential clients, partners, and mentors. 

This is where your brand foundations come into play - your story, values, beliefs, mission, vision, etc. Just like soil shapes a tree, these foundational aspects shape who you are as a brand and how you show up in networking situations. It's about your authentic presence. (P.S., If you want to read more on this topic and learn more about my brand tree metaphor, check out this blog post).

At networking events, it’s far more about 'being' rather than 'doing.' Yes you can say the right things and wear the right outfit – but who are you being amidst it all? What’s the personal impact you’re making on the people you meet? This 'being-ness' is what creates the lasting impression. So, how can you ensure that you leave an impression that resonates? This next section contains some qualities and tactical tips to get you started.

Tips to Leave a Positive Impression at Networking Events

To make a meaningful (and positive) impact at networking events, there are a few key qualities that you can cultivate.

First is active listening. You know those people at networking events who everyone flocks to while you stand awkwardly rehearsing what to say if anyone asks you a question (anyone else been there before?!)? People are flocking to them because they are active listeners! 

This means they don’t think about what they’re going to say next while the other person is talking. Nor are they distracted by everything on their to do list that they aren’t getting done right now. Great listeners understand that it’s not about how much time they have for an interaction, but rather, the quality of each interaction. Quality interactions can not happen without being 100% present.

Next up is giving more than you take. Here’s a powerful mindset shift: The less you talk about yourself, the more powerful and lasting your impression will be. Approach networking events with a mindset of generosity – offer support, resources, and insights to others without expecting immediate returns. Ask open-ended questions and interact with genuine curiosity to try to get to know the person on the other end of the conversation. 

When you engage in this way, it makes the person you’re talking with feel seen, heard and valued … and this kind of interaction feels amazing to receive from someone! Because people associate you with the feelings you evoke in them, this is one way you can leave a lasting impression at networking events that’s a win/win for everyone involved. 

One of the more important things on this list, though, is to be authentic. Drawing from my own experience leading networking events since 2011, I've learned valuable lessons about what works and what doesn't. One common mistake that can leave the wrong lasting impression is being overly focused on getting your elevator pitch perfect. People can sense when someone is too rehearsed, sounding like a robot rather than speaking naturally. Instead, I encourage you to share about what you do from your heart, letting your passion and authenticity shine.

While I do teach my Impact Tribe members how to write and perfect their elevator pitch (which is the same as your marketing message), there is one key piece of advice I give them: practice what you’ve written, and then leave it at home. This allows them to feel confident in what they say when someone asks, “what do you do,” without losing the personability and authenticity of being face-to-face (or face-to-screen-to-face). 

Another important yet often overlooked aspect of leaving a positive, lasting impression at networking events is your presence. Be present, and be in-flow as much as possible during this time. This is YOUR time to connect with those around you and build real relationships that may help you grow your business. Your to-do list, incoming calls, and whatever else weighs on the back of your mind can wait. 

One thing I suggest if you struggle with this is to focus on your breathing. Breath creates ease and flow in the body. It also creates presence - the most essential component to great listening. If you aren’t breathing, you’re likely out of your body and too much in your head thinking about what you want to say next. When you don’t breathe your body also appears tight and constricted which can make you come across as closed off to the person you’re listening to.  

I talked about this one in a recent blog post, but please, if you want to leave a positive impression at a networking event (or really, anywhere), avoid unprompted selling. Networking events are not the place for aggressive sales pitches. Instead, focus on building relationships and offering value. Sales opportunities may naturally arise later. And even if they don’t, don’t force it. There are so many great opportunities that can come from networking events beyond just sales - be open to the possibilities.

Last but not least, authentically follow up after the event! When following up with new contacts, be genuine and considerate. Similar to the last point, avoid pushy or aggressive tactics that can alienate people – this just makes a bad name for you and your brand. Build genuine connections based on trust and mutual benefit.

While these guidelines can help, remember, your brand is a living entity. It evolves with your journey and experiences. Over time, it will become a reflection of your unique 'being-ness' that leaves a lasting impression, and most importantly, an impactful one.

By showing up as the face of your brand confidently and consistently at networking events, you can grow your business through word of mouth and the relationships you create. It's about crafting an experience that resonates, that connects on a human level. So, remember, at your next networking event, it's not about doing but being. YOU are your brand.

Leaving a lasting impression is not just about being remembered – it's about being the kind of person others want to remember. It's about resonance and connection that speaks volumes about your brand.

Remember, your story, your brand, and your truth can make a profound difference in the world. Let's make it happen!

Every month on the third Wednesday of the month, The Daring Fempreneur community gets together for our online networking event, Dare to Connect – and you’re invited to join! Our doors are always open, and we love to welcome new AND returning members each month. This is THE place to make new connections, nourish existing ones and turn your "networking" into long-lasting friendships and powerful business relationships.

You'll leave with:

→ Connections that could lead to new clients, referrals, speaking opportunities, or your new best friend!

→ A full heart and inspired spirit from all the awesome energy in the Zoom room!

→ A fresh perspective – that networking doesn't have to feel like so much work!

Learn more and join our next event for free at the link below!