How to network like a boss (and a human)

Love or hate them, in-person networking events are one of the most effective marketing strategies around. And don’t just take our word for it – 75% of marketers agree. 

There’s nothing more powerful than human connection. In fact, a recent LinkedIn survey found that 70% of workers landed their job because they had a personal connection with somebody in the company. 

This is why having a Business Card at in-person events is still super crucial. They’re a visual, physical reminder of the connection you made. Just think of them as your secret networking weapon.

To go hand-in-hand with your Business Cards, here are a few tips to make big waves at your next networking event.

Select events wisely

When it comes to IRL networking, it’s all about quality over quantity. Going to a select handful of events goes a long way. You don’t always have to go to the big-name functions either. Smaller, niche events provide greater opportunity to cut through the noise, do more targeted networking, and attract quality leads. Just look at what Morrama did at Milan Design Week – with a little help from MOO, of course.

Being selective also means you’re not spreading yourself too thin, which is especially important when you’re a small team. If you’re sending someone to represent your brand, make sure you choose the right person, too. Some people are naturally more confident and charismatic than others. So, don’t send your teammate who doesn’t like networking.

Stock up before you go

Print cultivates connection (especially when you make it extra fancy), so it’s worth considering all the promo materials you might need before your next event. Flyers and Business Cards are great for increasing visibility. Postcard marketing is an underrated way to add a little flair and design something truly keepable. Fun freebies like Stickers and Labels can also make your brand more memorable.

Make a memorable first impression

You have roughly 10 seconds to grab someone’s attention. So, make sure the marketing materials you bring truly shine. Try giving your Business Cards a little refresh, or make a big statement with these gold foil beauties. You could even upgrade your paper for something guaranteed to grab new connections’ attention. Check out our paper guide, so you can get a feel for our range. 

Build authentic connections

Forget the numbers. Instead, focus on having real, quality conversations with a select few people. Investing time in face-to-face, human-to-human relationship-building will have way more impact than dishing out hundreds of Business Cards. It helps build trust and makes for a more natural follow up. And while we’re on the topic…

Always follow up

Reaching out after any event can deepen new relationships and reinforce your business values. If you’ve really hit it off with a connection, you could even send a corporate gift to keep you and your brand top of mind. Our award-winning Water Bottles and Hardcover Notebooks are always a favorite, FYI.

Put the ‘social’ in social networking

It’s vital to keep new connections close and nurture relationships on social platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with their content is an essential extension of any networking strategy (who doesn’t love a like or a comment on their posts?), continue conversations, and build more dynamic networks. Don’t forget to include your LinkedIn handle on your Business Card, so it’s easy to find and follow you.

Got a big event coming up?

Stock up on Business Cards, marketing materials, and branded products before your next networking event. And if you need some next-level creative support to give your branding an upgrade, we can help with that, too. Just fill in the form below and our team will be in touch pronto.