Here is the thing, networking isn’t schmoozing— it’s about finding people who care about the same problems you do and figuring out how to solve them together. And finding those people in a room full of smart individuals can be a daunting task. But in our experience, it shouldn’t be.
This blog will serve as your guide on how to Summit networking effectively.
Summit Networking Tips for Conferences
First and foremost, networking isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. Like everything else, it takes some practice, and you might not meet the right people the first or second time, but you might meet them the third or fourth time. It’s all about trying and refining.
1. Find Out Your Why.
Why are you attending the said conference? What is the goal? Your answer is important because it will decide how you will spend your time at the conference.
A few reasons might include:
- To build your network.
- Build your market presence (especially in global events).
- To find promising startups for investment.
- Build business relationships with founders.
- Gain insights on a particular industry or topic.
Based on the goal, you must create a list of things you’ll do at the event. Your list must include who you’d like to network with and what activities you’ll attend or participate in. This will give clarity on what to do at the event.
For this, you need to research what activities the event will include and who the special guests are, and analyze the list of attendees (if you can access the list).
One of the most important investor networking tips is to know what types of startups are exhibiting in an investor summit, like IIS. This can help you research the industries so you are not blindsided by anything.
For research, use social media and connect with the organizers. You’ll often find out who is attending through tags or the official accounts of the organizers.
2. Have a Pre-made List of People you want to Network.
Realistically, it’s impossible to network with everyone in the conference. Yes, you can fill your bag with business cards, but it might not help secure a call or lunch with a few potential investors, business partners, or industry experts.
That’s where your list comes in.
For this, you need to do prior research on the attendees and special guests. This will help you narrow down the list and have quality conversations with the desired people. Furthermore, if someone gives you a card, politely accept it and check them out later.
3. Always keep a Notepad at your Disposal
You are bound to be overwhelmed at networking conferences/summits. The best way to remember everything is to jot it down. You can also use a tablet or notes app on your phone.
You can also write brief notes after an insightful conversation with someone. This helps you remember important bits of the event and create a follow-up strategy. The notes help you create a personalized message to help the receiver remember you.
4. Prepare a Short 30-second Elevator Pitch
Networking events can be fast-paced. You get a limited time to introduce yourself, so be ready, don’t just wing it. Add some purpose to your intro if you want to be worth listening to.
The elevator speech should be of 30 seconds or 60 seconds at the most. The words should range between 70 and 150 words. Focus on introducing yourself, your profession, and your objective (subtly) to connect with them. Add a catching point about yourself or your startup to gain their attention.
5. Listen to Find Opportunities
Before talking, come listening. An active, attentive listener is better than a smooth talker.
This can help you find networking opportunities that many might miss. Listening lets you find potential business partners, investors, or a startup. Furthermore, by listening, you respect the people, leaving a good image.
6. Take a few-minute break
Now, this is the most important tip for business networking in Dubai. Walking and talking around the networking event can be exhausting. A few minutes’ break is crucial, relax, and leverage your lunch time. An exhausted face and voice aren’t going to work in your favour. So take the breaks!
7. Build Your Network In Dubai With IIS!
The International Investor Summit (IIS) is coming back to the UAE. We will be hosting the IIS event in Dubai in November 2025! This event provides a stage for global startups and investors to know more about the UAE startup ecosystem and build their network in the UAE. Registration is open, so book your spot now!
Conclusion
Networking at a business conference or summit can be difficult. However, with networking tips for a conference, you can ace your visit and get better returns from attending the event.
First, create a goal to achieve from attending the conference. This helps you focus on what is relevant to you in the event. Focus on networking with a few people to create quality business relationships. Create an elevator pitch and listen to people to engage properly. Also, keep a small note with you to jot down important moments and contacts for follow-ups. You can use all these tips at the International Investors Summit (IIS) in Dubai in November! Register your seats now!
FAQs
How to Network at a Conference or Summit?
To network at a conference, you must start by setting up a goal to attend that conference. It helps you determine how to prepare and which people you will network with. This enables you to maximize your time at the event. Create an elevator pitch to introduce yourself quickly. Do follow-up messages to build a strategic relationship.
How Do I Follow Up with People After Attending a Conference?
Right after you have a conversation with someone, take a few notes to remember what you talked about. Use these notes to create a personalized message and send it to the person. You should focus on a specific topic to help them remember who you are.
What should I Prepare Before Attending a Conference/Summit?
Before attending a conference or a summit, you should:
- Research about the event and the attendees. This helps you create a list of people you will network with and the activities you’ll check out at the event.
- Prepare and practice an engaging elevator pitch of 70-150 words delivered in 30-60 seconds.
- Keep a note and plenty of business cards.
How to create an Elevator Pitch for Networking Events?
When creating an elevator pitch, start by introducing your name, career & position, and then shift to your business or something that you have recently achieved to show your skills. Keep the tone friendly. You can change a few parts based on who you’re introducing yourself to.
