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Is It Okay to Go to a Business Networking/Conference Alone?

We’ve all had that uneasy feeling in the pit of our stomach at the thought of going to a large networking event or conference. Just thinking about entering a room full of strangers can give you the feeling of pure dread.

Which is why many of us choose to attend these large corporate events with friends or colleagues. However, to get the most out of these events, we really should go alone. Keep reading to find out why and how you can make the best of a solo networking trip.

Why You Should Go To A Networking Event On Your Own

Let’s face it, walking into a room full of strangers, many of whom will be with friends or co-workers can feel daunting. You know you’re going to have to work hard just to get to speak to someone, anyone! Plus if the conversation falls flat, there’s no back up from your friends.

But that’s why you absolutely should go on your own because you literally have to speak to people who are not known to you. You can’t stick with your friends because they’re not there, so you have to speak to strangers.

This opens up new connections and opportunities which is exactly why you attended in the first place.

The Main Problem With Going In A Group

People who attend conferences in a group tend to remain with their group for the whole time they’re at the event. They’ll talk to each other, eat with each other and go to talk sessions together. Which is all fine if your only reason for attending is to learn new information.

But if you want to increase your network and make connections with clients, partners or collaborators it probably won’t happen if you’re part of a group of friends. The only way to look like you’re open to meeting new people and make useful connections is if you’re on your own.

It’s All About Making The First Move

Most of us get nervous just walking into a room full of strangers on our own. But that’s why it’s such a good thing to do, why? Because almost everybody in that room feels exactly the same way.

Which means that once you push past that initial fear and speak to someone, they’ll be only too pleased that somebody has broken the ice. Most people are at the event for the same reason as you are, to make new and meaningful connections to help them in their business.

Once you make that first step you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how friendly and receptive other people can be.

My Personal Experience Of Networking Alone

I always try to attend an event on my own, but if I do go with a group of work colleagues, I break away from them as soon as I get into the event. The first few times I was at these networking events, it was difficult to speak to others (I’m not typically a pushy person).

But now I can talk to anyone because in my own experience, the odd rejection is overpowered by the multiple new business contacts I’ve made. I just have to remind myself that every conversation is a potential new connection and that’s the whole point of attending the event in the first place.

What’s The Secret To Attending Networking Events On Your Own?

Here are the main things you should do when attending networking events alone;

Only Go To Events That You’re Interested In

If you’re going to a networking event on your own, make sure it’s on a subject that genuinely interests you. If it’s a subject you’re enthusiastic about you’ll feel more comfortable and less likely to be daunted by a huge crowd of strangers.

Once the session is over you’ll be able to offer insightful comments to add to conversations with the new people you’ve met because it’s about a subject that you’re familiar with.

Be Sure To Follow The Dress Code For The Event

There’s no better way to feel and act in a confident manner than when you look good. You don’t want to be the odd one out when it comes to your clothes in a room full of corporate business executives.

Before deciding what to wear for the event, check out the event page and see if there’s a dress code. If there isn’t, check out images from last year’s event and see how people were dressed.

Always remember to only wear comfortable clothes, if it’s an all day standing event, make sure your shoes are comfortable. Remember that a good way to get noticed and break the ice with others is to wear something that makes a statement.

Maybe a bright, colourful tie, a bright jacket or something that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Keep It Real

If you want to make genuine connections, you need to be your real authentic self while attending the event. If you put on an act around new people, your connections will be based on a false persona and won’t stand the test of time.

Remember that you got to the position that you’re at by being the real you. You don’t need to pretend to be something or someone that you’re not.

Managing Pre-Event Nerves

Feeling nervous before a networking event is completely normal, but there are ways to ease that anxiety. Practising beforehand can make a big difference, whether it’s rehearsing your elevator pitch or preparing a few conversation starters. 

Another useful technique is controlled breathing, taking slow, deep breaths before entering the venue can help calm your nerves. It also helps to remind yourself why you’re there. Rather than focusing on the fear of awkward moments, shift your attention to the benefits of meeting new people and expanding your professional network. 

A positive mindset goes a long way, and treating the event as an opportunity rather than a challenge can make the experience far less daunting.

Approaching Groups With Confidence

While speaking to individuals can be easier, approaching a group of people can feel more intimidating. One way to get around this is by noticing the group’s body language. If they are standing in an open formation rather than a tight circle, it’s a good sign that they are open to others joining the conversation. 

Confidence is key, walking up with a smile and making eye contact can help break the initial barrier. Instead of waiting for an invitation, listen in for a moment and find a natural way to contribute, try commenting on the discussion topic. 

A simple approach like, “That’s an interesting point! I was just thinking something similar when I attended a talk on this last year,” can work well. Introducing yourself naturally and referencing the event makes it easier to join in with the conversation.

Exiting A Conversation Gracefully

Not every conversation will last forever, and it’s important to know how to move on without seeming too abrupt or rude. If a discussion has run its course or you’d like to meet more people, you can exit smoothly by thanking the person for their time and mentioning that you’d like to connect again. 

A simple, “It’s been great chatting with you, I’m going to grab a coffee, but I’d love to stay in touch,” keeps the tone polite and open ended. Or, mentioning another part of the event you plan to attend, such as a talk or a breakout session, gives you a natural reason to step away. If you’ve had a particularly engaging conversation, suggesting a follow up chat over LinkedIn or email can keep the connection going on way beyond the event.

What To Do If You Struggle To Make Connections

Despite your best intentions, there might be times when you find yourself standing alone longer than expected. Instead of retreating to your phone or waiting for someone to approach you, try positioning yourself in strategic areas like the coffee station or near entry points where people naturally pause and are more open to conversation. 

Some events also have facilitators or hosts who can help introduce attendees, seeking them out can be a good way to get involved. If you’re struggling to find people to talk to, attending a Q&A session and asking a relevant question can put you on the radar of other attendees who may want to continue the discussion afterward. Being proactive is key, and even small efforts can lead to meaningful conversations.

Have A Prepared & Rehearsed Elevator Pitch

You have a two or three minute window of opportunity to show new people who you are, what you do and what you would like to gain from attending this event. That’s why a good elevator pitch works so well.

You need to say something along the lines of;

 “Hi, I’m [name], I work for [company] as a [job description]

I’m looking to meet other [job description] with the aim of [whatever you’re trying to achieve].

You might need to have two or more elevator pitches prepared for different types of events or crowds. But this is a proven way to get connections and save time. You can add some interesting facts about your work or life but keep it short and to the point, otherwise you risk losing your audience.

Set Yourself Clear Goals

Ask yourself why you’re attending the event and set goals to achieve that ambition. If you struggle to talk to new people and the reason you’re attending is to make new contacts, set yourself the goal of making at least three new connections during the course of the event.

Likewise with meeting new clients or finding a collaborator or just connecting with others in your industry or even finding new suppliers.

You can often find a list of attendees, speakers and vendors online before the event so you can check out whom you would like to speak to. This will help you to be prepared before you even get to the event.

Get To The Event Early

If you get to the event after it has started, you run the risk of being left out of any informal groups that got together right at the start of the event. However, if you get there early, you can start networking as soon as people arrive.

You can even start talking to people in the registration line or the coffee queue. At some events the organisers and guest speakers like to arrive early giving you a potential opportunity to connect with them at the start of the day.

Don’t Be Afraid To Make The First Move

If you see someone on their own and you make eye contact, don’t stand and wait for them to approach you. They’re probably just as nervous as you or even more so.

Make the first move, go over to them and introduce yourself and strike up a conversation. Many long lasting business connections have been made because that nervous person remembers who spoke to them first.

Be A Good Listener

Most individuals don’t necessarily listen to what others are saying when they’re nervous or feel awkward. Don’t be that person, take the time to listen to what others are saying and don’t forget to ask relevant questions.

Also don’t think solely about what help that person can be to you and your career. Think of how you could help them, either with an interesting article you’ve recently read or a contact that could really assist them in their latest project.

Be Sure To Swap Contact Information WIth Your New Contacts

When you do meet someone who you think will make a good business contact you need to exchange contact details to ensure the connection remains strong.

You can either use business cards or use the LinkedIn QR code. Either way be sure to give out your contact details and collect those from potential business contacts.

Remember To Follow Up After The Event

You should contact any new connections within 24 to 48 hours of the end of the event. Just send them a brief message saying something along the lines of;

“Hi [their name]

It was great to meet you at the [event] I would like to talk more about [whatever you were talking about]

Would you like to meet up for a coffee?”

By keeping it light and informal you don’t come across as pushy or needy and if you genuinely made a meaningful connection, they’ll reply.

What Are The Benefits Of Going To A Business Event Alone?

While it’s always less awkward going to business events with friends or colleagues, going alone has a number of advantages which include;

• You Can Concentrate Better
  Without friends or colleagues chatting to you, you can give the speakers and other attendees you speak to your undivided attention. This will allow you to retain more of the information that you hear.
• More Networking Opportunities
  If you’re on your own you’ll appear more approachable to others than you would if you were in a group all chatting together.
• Personal Development
  Being on your own at a business event forces you to interact more with strangers than you would if you were in a group of friends.
• Gives You More Flexibility
  When in a group, you’ll find yourself doing things that the group decides. Whereas when you’re on your own, you can decide which activities and sessions to attend. You can also do things at your own speed and not just go along with what other members of the group want to do.
• A Fuller Experience
  Being on your own can make the whole event more meaningful. You can focus more on the overall content of the event and get into deeper conversations with other attendees.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Attending Networking Events Alone?

Of course attending events on your own does have a few disadvantages which include;

• Increased Expenses
  Traveling alone to events often means paying more for transport and accommodation fees. Groups usually share these expenses which reduces your costs.
• A Lack Of Support
  Attending these events can be challenging and having a friendly or familiar face is comforting. If you attend on your own, you don’t have that support.
• Difficulty Connecting
  It can be difficult for some individuals to initiate conversations alone. You might feel more comfortable if you were with a colleague talking to a stranger.
• You Might Not Get The Full Meaning Of A Talk
  When you’re listening to a speaker, you don’t always get the full perspective of what’s being said. If you’re with a group, they often pick up on other parts of the speech that you might have missed.
• Safety Worries
  You might feel safer in a room full of strangers if you’re with a few familiar faces. Being alone you might feel more vulnerable and less able to relax.

Attending Events Alone Leads To Greater Opportunities

Attending a networking event or conference alone can seem daunting at first, but the rewards far outweigh the initial discomfort. By going outside of your comfort zone, you open yourself up to new opportunities, meaningful connections, and valuable professional growth. 

The secret is to approach the experience with confidence, curiosity, and a willingness to engage with others. Every conversation has the potential to lead to something bigger, whether it’s a new client, a business partnership, or simply an insightful exchange that broadens your perspective. 

The more you embrace the challenge of networking solo, the more natural and rewarding it will become. So next time you’re debating whether to attend with colleagues or go it alone, take the bold step, you might be surprised at just how much you gain from the experience.

SEE ALSO: 20 Business Networking Event Tips (to sky-rocket your career)

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