Makers Department

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Networking & Events: How do I meet people?

Hannah Coombs

Networking & Events: How do I meet people?

We're back for our third episode discussing networking and events! We share how to build new connections and how to strengthen existing ones. We also recommend some great events both in Europe and then local to London.

Introduction

There are 2 main types of networking: the expansion type and the strengthening type. Expansion is making new contacts, whereas strengthening is maintaining and building existing relationships. At Makers Department, 80% of our business comes through referrals, so it is important that we keep investing time and energy in our existing client base.

There are many ways you can expand your network, including:

  1. Traditional marketing strategies for outreach (e.g. cold emails)

  2. Digital marketing through social media such as LinkedIn

  3. Direct approach through networking at events

Networking events - Our selection:

Large events (Europe)

  • Web Summit (Lisbon): Technology - large and SMEs as well as startups.

  • Mobile World Congress (Barcelona): Mobile tech, IoT and communication future.

  • IFA (Berlin): Consumer electronics and home appliances.

  • Mojo Pitch: Play inventions.

Local (London)

  • FutureFest (Nest): Fun and engaging digital experiences and highlights the latest in technology advancements. Festival format.

  • Hardware Pioneers: Tech-based startups, suppliers and consultants (great for networking within an inner circle). Conference format.

  •  Product Tank (London): Software and hardware early-stage product pitching. Insightful discussion about development and project management. 

How to make the most out of networking events

Plan and organization:

  • Use tools provided by each event to book meetings

  • Set goals beforehand (e.g. to meet someone you need to talk to, or find a new business partner)

Be more present:

  • Having short meetings means making the most of the time, although this can be difficult to put into practice!

  • Trigger Conversions: workshops and tools to make conversations more meaningful and enjoyable 

  • ‘Captivate’ - book by Vanessa Van Edwards: great to understand dynamics of conversions and first impressions. Understanding our human side to improve your social skills in general.

Thank you for taking the time to read or watch our video about networking and events. We hope you found this helpful and can use some of the tools or visit some of the events in the future!