• Dress appropriately for the event and choose clothes that reflect well on you.
• Improve your smile by brushing and flossing regularly and considering veneers.
• Be aware of body language and make sure to appear confident, relaxed, and approachable.
• Use bag check-in services if your items are too bulky or heavy for the event.
• Keep your phone out of sight and avoid taking calls during conversations.
Networking events can be incredibly beneficial only if you make the right impression. Whether at a small business event or a large corporate gathering, you want to look sharp and confident while remaining personable and professional. Here are some simple yet discreet ways to maintain your presentable look while networking.
Dress Appropriately
Whether it’s casual clothes or something more formal, dress appropriately for the event. Make sure that your clothing fits well and is free of stains and holes.
Remember that even though the event might be casual, the people you meet will likely remember what you were wearing, so make sure it reflects well on you. For instance, if you know that the event will be business casual, opt for a collared shirt, slacks, or khakis and dress shoes.
On the other hand, if the event calls for a more formal look, such as wearing suits or evening gowns, make sure that your clothing is clean and pressed. A well-fitted suit or dress will help you look polished and professional.
Spruce Up Your Smile
A great smile can be a powerful networking tool, so make sure that yours is looking its best. Take the time to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to keep them healthy and avoid bad breath.
Consider natural-looking porcelain veneers if you have any minor flaws in your teeth, such as chips or gaps. They can give your smile the perfect finishing touch, making it both natural and attractive.
Veneers are also easy to maintain and can last for up to 20 years with proper care. You only need to brush and floss them as you would your natural teeth.
Focus on Body Language
Body language is an integral part of networking. Make sure that your physical cues are sending the right message. Here are some examples:
Stand up straight and keep your head held high.
This conveys confidence and shows that you’re paying attention to the conversation. To make sure that you appear relaxed and approachable, don’t cross your arms in front of your body and, instead, put them on your sides.
Make eye contact with people.
Eye contact is a sign of trustworthiness and confidence. Make sure you’re looking at the person you’re speaking with when they’re talking, and smile every now and then to show them that you’re engaged in the conversation.
Smile often, but not too much.
Smiling is a great way to show people that you’re friendly and approachable. However, it’s important to remember not to overdo it. Too much smiling can make you look insincere or even disingenuous.
Keep your hands relaxed and away from your face.
This is a sign of self-confidence and openness. Fidgeting or touching your face can make you look nervous, which isn’t the message you want to be sending when networking. Instead, keep your hands relaxed and use them to gesture when you’re talking.
Avoid fidgeting or crossing your arms.
Fidgeting can be a sign of nervousness or lack of confidence, and crossing your arms is a sign of defensiveness. Both of these will make you seem less approachable to those around you.
Bag Check-In Services
If your bag is too large or heavy for an event like this, consider using bag check-in services where available. You can store any bulky items like laptops or briefcases at a secure location during the event without having to lug them around with you all day long.
This way, you won’t have to worry about your belongings getting in the way as you mingle with potential business partners. This is especially important if you’re traveling to the event and don’t have as much time to prepare.
Furthermore, bag check-in services can help you keep track of your belongings, ensuring that nothing gets lost or stolen during the event.
Keep Your Phone Out Of Sight
It’s essential to stay focused when networking, so try to keep your phone out of sight as much as possible. If possible, turn off any alerts or notifications that could distract you from conversations with potential contacts.
Additionally, refrain from taking calls during conversations, as this could give off an unprofessional vibe. If someone does call while you’re networking, let them know that now isn’t a good time and offer to call them back later.
Moreover, try to avoid the temptation of browsing your phone throughout the event. Not only does this distract you from networking, but it also tells other people that you’re not invested in the conversation.
Networking events can provide invaluable opportunities for both personal growth and professional development. Maintaining a presentable look is essential for making the best impression at these events; however, it can be difficult if you don’t know what steps to take ahead of time. By following these simple yet discreet tips on how to dress appropriately, spruce up your smile, be wary of body language, use bag check-in services, and keep your phone out of sight when networking, you’ll be sure to make the most of these events every time.
