Networking can be hit or miss for some. However, when you look at the benefits networking events offer, especially considering the reflection hosting your own would have on your company, it’s something worth considering.
Discover essential strategies for hosting a networking event that leaves a lasting impression and forges meaningful professional connections.
Chance Meets
You never know who you might meet at a networking event. Whether it is local, regional, or national, you are increasing your chances of making a key connection with the perfect provider or prospect.
Attending networking events regularly will not only help build your confidence but also build your reputation within the business circle as you become more of a known face. This can only benefit you and your business.
Setting the Stage
The venue you choose sets the tone for your networking event. Choose a location that is easily accessible and provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Edgeley Park is well-connected offering free onsite car parking with Stockport train station just a 5–10-minute walk away.
The atmosphere should encourage mingling and conversation. Think about lighting, music, and seating arrangements. Spaces with multiple small areas can facilitate smaller group discussions, making it easier for attendees to connect on a more personal level.
At Edgeley Park, we have seven refurbished rooms and facilities that are perfect to accommodate networking and exhibition events. Our Hardcastle, Cheadle and The 1883 all have breakout room spaces available.
Who to Invite and Why
A well-thought-out guest list is critical for the success of your networking event. Aim to invite a diverse group of professionals who can benefit from meeting each other. This includes people from different industries, career stages, and professional backgrounds.
When curating your list, consider the goals of your event and the potential value each guest can bring. Reach out to key industry leaders, influencers, and people who are known for their networking prowess. This mix will ensure a dynamic and productive environment.
Finally, do you want the event to be ticketed or non-ticketed? Depending on the value and exclusivity the networking event will offer your attendees, consider ticketing your networking event. This can be great for data collection purposes.
Activities and Icebreakers
Engagement is key to a successful networking event. It could be worthwhile planning activities and icebreakers that encourage attendees to interact and share their experiences. Simple icebreaker games can help ease initial awkwardness and get conversations flowing.
Consider incorporating structured networking activities such as speed networking or discussion groups focused on specific topics. These activities can help ensure that attendees make meaningful connections, rather than just exchanging business cards.
Are you looking for a unique source of inspiration at Edgeley Park? Elevate your conference experience by adding a stadium tour of our fantastic venue. With ongoing expansion efforts, our stadium will soon accommodate 18,000 home and away fans, making it an exciting time as we kick off League 1 on a successful note. Giving your delegates the opportunity to explore the inner workings of a football ground with aspirations to reach the Championship will truly set your conference apart.
Facilitating Connections
Provide attendees with tools that make networking easier. Name tags, business card exchange stations, and a printed or digital attendee list can help people identify and remember who they have met.
Encourage guests to connect on social media platforms like LinkedIn before and after the event. (Why not have your LinkedIn QR code feature on your business card?) Facilitators can also help by introducing people who may benefit from knowing each other, ensuring that no one feels left out.
Post Network Follow Up
The work doesn’t stop when the event ends. Follow up with your attendees to reinforce the connections made. Send a thank-you email highlighting key moments from the event and encouraging further contact among guests. Contact the connections you made with a personal note if a conversation concerning a meeting was had – utilise those new connections to benefit each other!
Consider sharing a post-event report or photos to keep the momentum going. This follow-up helps solidify relationships and ensures your event has a lasting impact on your professional network.
Network at Edgeley Park
At Edgeley Park, our spacious suites are perfect for networking, exhibitions, and corporate occasions of all styles. With facilities such as heated lamp worktops, kitchens, and bar areas in different rooms throughout the stadium. Moreover, our venue offers convenient, complimentary onsite parking and is conveniently linked to Stockport train station, just a 5-10 minute walk away. Your delegates will find us easily accessible, ensuring an easy journey.
If you are feeling inspired to organise your own networking or corporate event, contact our events team who will be more than happy to discuss options in more detail. Call us on 0161 266 2700 or email [email protected] with your query.
Join the Club
At Edgeley Park, we have an exclusive sponsors networking club – the County Business Club; with the aim to provide a place where our Sponsors can link with the club to unlock networking opportunities, build contacts, and meet new clients.
For more information on The County Business Club, click here. Alternatively, email [email protected] for more information concerning sponsorship and advertisement opportunities.
