Sure, event planning is about events. But it’s more about people, partnerships, connections. Success means building strong relationships that help you grow and, of course, pull off some pretty incredible NYC events. The right connections can land you dream clients and trusted vendors. So, how do you go about facilitating, nurturing, and building these kinds of event relationships? Networking!
Every networking opportunity leads to an introduction. And those introductions have the potential to open new doors for your professional (and personal) growth. Here are 10 key benefits of mastering the art of networking as an event planner – get great at these and you’ll be building a winning event circle of partners in no time.
1. Business Opportunities Await at Every Networking Event in NYC
You won’t meet people if you’re not getting in the room and putting yourself out there. Expanding your network means expanding your opportunities – more referrals, more collaborations, and more chances to grow your business. Networking keeps your pipeline full of potential clients and partners.
2. Access to Exclusive Deals and Activities
Want dibs on a premium venue or a vendor discount that’s not publicly advertised? Networking events are where you’ll find exclusive “gold.” Look for ways to connect with NYC venue managers and vendors that can put you at the top of their list when deals arise. These relationships can also help you cut costs and offer your clients better pricing – without sacrificing quality.
3. Stronger Vendor and Supplier Relationships with Networking
The key to executing unforgettable events is a repertoire of reliable vendors. The absolute best NYC event pros will tell you they’re only as good as their roster of partners. When you develop strong relationships with suppliers, they’re more likely to go the extra mile for you, whether it’s last-minute changes, discounts, or priority service.
4. Stay in the Loop on Industry Insights and Trends
When you’re connected to the right people, staying ahead of industry trends is easier. Networking with other event planners, marketing professionals, and brand leaders gives you firsthand knowledge of what’s working (and what’s not) in the event planning space. Get new ideas. See what event guests are loving for entertainment. And discover new event tech when you join the right networking circles.
5. Increase Your Credibility and Authority
Give yourself some credit. Networking can benefit your own event planning reputation, too. When you actively network and engage in industry conversations, you establish yourself as a go-to expert. Speaking at conferences or joining professional groups, for example, can position you as a thought leader and reliable representative of high-profile event planning. And if your circles are full of event planners, make yourself the expert in a specific niche, like mitzvah planning, product launch events, or team-building corporate events.
6. More Collaboration Opportunities with Networking
What’s better than one event planning pro? Two, of course! From co-hosting events to partnering on projects, networking connects you with professionals who complement your skills. Maybe you meet a tech expert who can enhance your events with futuristic digital experiences, for example, or a designer who can elevate your branding. The possibilities are endless. And combining your resources and skills only elevates the event experience for both your clients and guests.
7. Personal Growth Happens Every Time You Mingle
Even as an expert in your event niche, there’s always something new to learn. And as long as you keep yourself open to new things, you’ll always be in a position to grow. Networking is about learning just as much as it’s about scoring business opportunities. Conversations with other professionals will expose you to fresh ideas and problem-solving strategies. These insights can transform how you plan and execute events.
8. Solve Emerging Event Challenges with New Ideas
No event is without challenges, of course, but having a solid network will help you navigate unexpected issues when they arise. Need a backup caterer? A last-minute AV technician? A trusted network can help you solve problems on the fly. And if you have a particularly challenging situation, talk to others for ideas and better problem-solving.
9. Create a Never-ending Flow Client Referrals
When industry peers and vendors trust you, they’ll send your business your way. Think of your network like an extended sales team, recommending your services to clients when the opportunity arises. But they can’t recommend you if they don’t know about you. So, get involved, start networking, and let your circles know that you’re taking on new event clients.
Bonus Insight: Don’t be the person who only asks for leads. Be a champ for others in your networks, referring their services, as well.
10. Greater Career Advancement
If you’re looking to expand your event business, land a bigger role, or transition into a new area of event planning, networking is essential. It can open doors to client opportunities, mentorship, and career growth. The right connections can introduce you to decision-makers who can take your career to the next level.
Elevate Your Networking Skills at The Event Planner Expo 2025
Mastering the art of networking is going to take time and commitment. But it’s so worth the effort. It’s the key to unlocking bigger opportunities, stronger partnerships, and ultimately more successful events.
Ready to hone your networking skills? Reserve your pro booth for The Event Planner Expo 2025! Design your interactive booth on the high-energy trade show floor and prepare to network with the best of the best. Attendees at this premier conference come with budgets and event plans in hand, ready to find new partners. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your brand and services, and, of course, network with the best. Reserve your vendor booth today!
