Networking is one of the most important things you can do to be proactive about your future. Having meaningful connections can set you up for research, internships, your career, or really any opportunity. The Student Alumni Association’s annual Etiquette Dinner is right around the corner and the perfect place to mingle with alumni who are eager to help current students succeed. We put together a list of best networking practices to review before you head to the event:

Dress to Impress

While the event will feature a fashion show to give attendees details on what to wear for different dress codes, the dinner itself is a ‘business casual’ event. In the Pacific Northwest, where we keep things pretty casual, most networking events will follow a similar dress policy.

Business casual means nice pants or dark jeans (no ripped denim) and a collared shirt or sweater. Leave T-shirts, sweatpants and sweatshirts at home, along with your sneakers. Appropriate shoes are close-toed and should be comfortable enough to stand and walk around in. 

Prepare!

All networking events are different. At some events you won’t know who you'll be talking to, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare! Make sure you have answers prepared to basic networking questions (like ‘What brings you here?’ and ‘Where do you want to end up?’), and bring a list of questions to ask others when there is a gap in conversation.

When you know who else is going to be at an event, it is always good to do your research so you have talking points. This extra step will make you stand out for taking your time to show interest in others.

Bring Materials

Always have a notebook and pen to write important names or details down. Think about printing yourself some business cards to leave with your new connections.

Be Confident and Engaged

One of the hardest things about networking is feeling comfortable talking to new people. Confidence is key, and while it may be cliché, the best way to be more confident is to fake it ‘til you make it. Don’t forget: the people attending the networking event want to connect with people like you.

To start a conversation ask someone a simple question about themselves (people love talking about themselves) and listen to the response. Once the conversation has started, be engaged! Find details in what they are saying that you connect with or want to know more about. By listening, you show that you care about what they are saying.

Follow Up

After the event do not forget to follow up with people! Make a virtual connection on LinkedIn if they have a profile, and send emails thanking them for their time. If you are interested in continuing the conversation, you might even ask them to have coffee with you. The most important step to networking is to grow these new connections beyond the event.