Empowered Networking
Have you ever wanted to be the most confident person in the room?
Networking events can feel like walking into a room where everyone already knows each other—and you’re the outsider trying to join the conversation. I remember a tech networking event I went to and I felt completely out of my depth. My dad, ever the cheerleader, gave me a pep talk: “Stand tall, speak with confidence, and seize the opportunity to talk to people from companies you admire.”
But when the pep talk wasn’t enough to shake my nerves, he took a bold step. He took my purse and phone and walked away, leaving me to face the room on my own. Far from being cruel, it was the best thing he could have done. That moment forced me to adapt, and I quickly learned that confidence isn’t something you wait to feel—it’s something you create.
Here are the strategies I’ve picked up along the way to help you walk into any networking event with confidence and ease.
1. Shift the Spotlight: It’s Not About You
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received is this: focus on the other person. Networking isn’t about delivering the perfect elevator pitch or dazzling people with your accomplishments. It’s about connection, and people love to talk about themselves.
Start by asking open-ended questions. Instead of worrying about how you’ll introduce yourself, ask someone about their work, their journey, or even their thoughts on the event. Conversations become much easier when the pressure isn’t solely on you to perform.
Why This Works…
People naturally gravitate toward those who show genuine interest in them. In Dale Carnegie’s classic book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, he emphasizes that being a good listener and encouraging others to talk about themselves is one of the simplest ways to build rapport.
Practically speaking, this approach also buys you time to get comfortable in the conversation. As they share their story, you’ll often find common ground or natural opportunities to weave in your own experiences.
2. Fake It Till You Make It (it truly works)
Here’s a little secret about networking events: almost everyone feels nervous, even the people who seem effortlessly charming. Confidence is often less about how you feel inside and more about how you present yourself.
Walking into a room with your shoulders back, a steady gaze and a calm demeanour can transform how you’re perceived. And sometimes, acting confident can actually make you feel more confident.
Why This Works…
This idea has been explored in pop culture and research alike. Think of the “power pose” famously popularized by Amy Cuddy in her TED Talk. While the full effect of power poses is debated, the core idea remains true: when you embody confidence physically—standing tall, smiling, and using open gestures—it affects how others perceive you and how you perceive yourself.
Even in Hollywood, characters often use this tactic. Think of superheroes like Wonder Woman: she doesn’t wait to feel confident; she assumes the posture of strength and steps into her role fully. You can channel this energy too, even if you feel like anything but a superhero inside.
3. Refine Your Elevator Pitch
A well-practised introduction can make all the difference at networking events. Knowing exactly how to answer the inevitable “So, what do you do?” question saves you from awkward pauses and helps you feel more in control.
Take time before the event to craft a short, engaging summary of who you are, what you do, and what excites you. This doesn’t have to be overly formal—authenticity is key—but practising it out loud can make it feel natural when the moment arises.
Why This Works…
Preparation reduces anxiety. According to a study published in Behavior Therapy, rehearsing stressful social interactions in advance can significantly lower feelings of self-doubt and improve your performance in real situations. When you’ve already worked through the nerves in practice, you free up mental energy to focus on things like eye contact, tone, and posture.
Final Thoughts
Building confidence at networking events isn’t about becoming the most outgoing person in the room or nailing a flawless performance. It’s about showing up, being genuinely curious about others, and trusting that you belong.
When my dad left me to fend for myself at that tech event, I realised something important: the hardest part is taking the first step. Once you do, the rest becomes easier. By shifting the spotlight to others, embodying confidence, and preparing ahead of time, you can turn any networking event into an opportunity—not just to meet people, but to grow into the confident person you’re meant to be.
And if you’re still feeling unsure? Remember, confidence is like a muscle. The more you practice, the stronger it gets. So throw those shoulders back, step into the room, and own it.
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