Mastering Networking: A Practical Guide
Networking can feel intimidating — but with the right strategies, it becomes not only easier, but even enjoyable. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a newcomer to the industry, building meaningful connections is one of the most valuable parts of attending a conference.
Here are some practical tips to help you approach conversations with confidence, leave a lasting impression, and turn casual chats into long-term relationships.
Starting Conversations with Ease
Smile and make eye contact: Your body language speaks first. A welcoming smile, good posture, and an approachable handshake set the tone before words are exchanged.
Use icebreakers: Simple, open-ended questions help break the ice:
“What brought you to this conference?”
“Which talks have inspired you so far?”
“How was your journey here?”
Introduce yourself clearly: Practice a short, memorable introduction. For example:
“Hi, I’m Max. I study energy economics and I’m fascinated by how we can make renewable energy more efficient.”
Or use a storytelling style: “I’m Lisa, working on sustainable mobility. I recently came across an innovative public transport solution that really inspired me.”
Find common ground: People connect faster when they discover similarities — like working on similar projects or coming from the same city.
Building Lasting Relationships
The real value of networking begins after the conference:
Follow up quickly: Send a short note within a couple of days: “It was great to meet you at the conference. I really enjoyed learning about your project on [topic]. Let’s keep in touch!”
Leverage LinkedIn: Personalize your connection requests and engage with your contacts’ posts.
Stay in touch: Suggest a quick call or coffee chat to continue the conversation.
Offer value: Share articles, events, or opportunities that could benefit your new contacts.
Finding the Right Topics
Small talk is the entry point, but meaningful conversations take you further.
Good starters: Ask about sessions, industry trends, or career paths.
Dig deeper: Once the conversation flows, explore motivations, challenges, or exciting projects they’re working on.
Listen actively: Show genuine interest by asking follow-up questions, reflecting back key points, and using positive body language.
Ending Conversations Gracefully
Not every conversation should last forever. When it’s time to move on:
Be polite: “It was great speaking with you! I’d love to stay in touch while I meet a few more people.”
Exchange details: Connect on LinkedIn or share a business card.
Suggest a follow-up: “Let’s catch up again after the conference” or “See you at the networking evening.”
Overcoming the Nerves
Start small with short chats during coffee breaks.
Don’t wait to be approached — take the first step.
Accept that not every interaction will click, and that’s okay.
Reflect afterward: What worked well? What would you try differently next time?
Remember: practice makes it natural.
Final Thoughts
Networking is not about collecting business cards — it’s about building meaningful, mutually beneficial connections. Approach each conversation with curiosity, openness, and friendliness, and opportunities will naturally follow.
With these strategies, you’ll be ready to make the most of your time at YMN — and beyond.
Anna Filby, Founder & CEO Young Mobility Network
“Networking is not a ‘nice-to-have,’ but a powerful tool to drive innovation, build your business, and showcase yourself.”
Start Your Networking Journey with YMN+
Kick off your YMN journey at our Monthly Digital Welcome Lunch — a relaxed session to meet members, introduce yourself, and get to know the network!
Join our Digital Lunch Roulette – your monthly chance to connect one-on-one with another mobility professional, spark new ideas, and grow your network in a fun and informal way.