Dos and Don'ts of Networking

Explore upcoming Bright Network events here!

Attending a Bright Network event? Congratulations for securing your place! 

What’s next? Preparing for the event. Have a quick look below for a couple of key dos and don’ts for networking at events.

Do

1. Have an introduction of yourself in your back pocket – prepare and practise this before the event to ease any nerves
   1. Include your name, university, course and something to spur conversation, such as what you’re looking to do in your career, or what you’re looking to get out of the event
2. Ask questions about the person you’re talking to, as well as about roles and the business – this will help build a stronger connection with the employer representative, make you more memorable and lead to more benefits down the line
   1. Don’t underestimate the value of having a good conversation with employer representatives at the event and then solidifying the new network connection with a personalised LinkedIn message!

Don't

• Go in unprepared
  • Make sure you make an excellent first impression by being informed about the employer you’re speaking to
  • Use the event page of the event you’re attending and the programme to find out who’s attending and then research the firms so you know who they are and what they do
  • We also recommend preparing a couple of questions so you can make the most of your conversation
• Drag out conversations - long term outcomes (like a job) won’t come out of the first interaction
  • An initial conversation is a great starter, but if you’d like to discuss something in more detail, follow-up after the event and see if they’re available for a coffee or virtual chat
  • Keeping your conversations concise will also help you meet more people during the networking sessions, and show consideration for other members at the event

For more guidance on networking, take a look at this careers advice article.