Who you know is just as important as what you know when trying to maximize your success. There are countless stories of people who didn’t deserve a certain position based on their talent, but got it anyway thanks to their acquaintances. We often hear leaders say “attend networking events and meet more people. Grow your business.” In this format, popular people and groups with the biggest names get a lot of attention. It becomes more of a blend and no real network is made.

A networking format that is taking the world by storm is Speed ​​networking. In this organized event you will have the opportunity to speak with each person in the room. So we provide you with plenty of opportunities to make connections, gain new business, and put your name on the map for future business considerations.

Here are my three favorite things about Speed ​​Networking and why if you’re looking to create new connections, this is the way to do it.

1. Meet everyone in the room – This is huge! I can’t tell you how many events I’ve been to where I want to meet the great host from before, but never got the chance because of the long lines and crowds. With the Speed ​​​​networking format, you get about 4 minutes to talk to each person, and at the end of the session, you have time to mingle to talk more with anyone you connected with. This is my favorite of all benefits.

2. Organization and structure – Parties are fun and spark conversations for a day or two about what a great time you had; however, they create very few meaningful connections. In a networking event that operates under the “party” format, one person comes to the front of the room, thanks the crowd for coming, and talks about what they do for a living and how to contact them. Now that person was effectively marketed to everyone in the room, but what about you?

3. Fun – As professionals many times we neglect fun. We are laser focused on our career, our brands and our businesses. At a Speed ​​networking event you will have a great time as you interact with people with similar goals as you. Win, win.

So if you are someone looking to expand your network and meet like-minded people. Be sure to find out where your nearest rapid networking event is taking place and attend. Most of them are free.

Enjoy and if you go to one please comment below and tell me all about it!