What to Do in a Work Event Where You Don't Know Anyone

Socializing comes easily for some, but for others it is a more difficult task. At a work-related event where you know absolutely no one, it requires an even greater effort. For those of you who can relate to the second group, today we bring you a few tips to help you build a social strategy to make the most out of that evening and even enjoy it. For the purposes of this article, we would like you to meet Frank, a 34-year-old insurance salesman who is at his first industry conference and is having trouble meeting new people.

Before the Event

1.           Do Your Research: Preparation is fundamental if you want to feel as comfortable as possible throughout the event. If Frank arrives to the conference knowing the agenda and who the speakers are, he will not feel lost, he will be more in control of the situation, and he will have some conversation starters to blend in.

2.           Dress Appropriately: A key rule here is that it is better to be overdressed than underdressed. The event planners will usually give you a dress code, but if not, do the math on what type of event you are attending and be cautious with your wardrobe. Frank loves his Hawaiian shirts, but he knows that this is probably not the right pick for a strong first impression.

3.           Set Some Goals: What companies are attending? Who are the main players? Who am I interested in talking to? These are the questions Frank should ask himself to get to the conference with clear objectives and make his time worthwhile.

With this, Frank is fully prepared before the conference begins. He did his homework, he is dressed appropriately, and he has some objectives. What happens next? The interaction with others begins, and we have three main pointers to give you so that you and Frank are successful.

During the Event

1.           Slow Down on the Booze: Frank is a funny drunk, and that works well in family gatherings. He, as we told you before, is also a bit shy, and it is difficult for him to feel comfortable meeting new people. Booze is very tempting as a social lubricant, but if you cross the line, nobody will take you seriously. Frank does not fall for that trap. If there is alcohol at the conference, be like Frank and control the urge to drink to feel at ease.

2.           Don't Hide Behind Your Phone: remember to be present; Frank decided to attend to this conference because he knows it is a great opportunity to network with people related to his work. It does not make sense to attend to this Conference if you will isolate yourself on your phone. Put your phone on silent and if you absolutely need to check it, do it privately.

3.           Actively Participate in Conversations: Walk the room, mingle, and make an effort to start new conversations. Remember that all the people at the Conference share at least one interest with you and Frank, so use it as a conversation opener and take it from there. Frank also knows that there are people at the Conference who are there alone just like he is. Reaching out to these people first is a great way to get the ball rolling. They will also appreciate you approached them!

At the end of the night, you will see that what you feared would be a dreadful evening full of awkward moments, was in fact a very productive one where you got to learn more about your business, relate to people who share common interests with you and build a stronger business network. Remember that pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is key to become a stronger businessperson and build the successful career you want for yourself.