A library worth of event planning resources, a tax advisor’s hourly rate, and ads to break into luxe event planning. These items will cost you a tall stack of Benjamin’s. But you can get them and more resources a budding NYC event planner needs for a steal if you have the support of a strong network. To build a helpful, professional community, you need to attend a steady stream of networking events — and make a favorable impression. In this article, we share the top tips every NYC event planner needs to make a splash at networking events.
1. Create Networking Goals
You want to go into any networking event prepared. You do this by creating networking goals before you RSVP. Ask yourself what, exactly, you want to get out of any networking event you want to attend. Sure, your “umbrella” reason is to grow your event planning business. However, the ways networking events help you do that are as varied as the events themselves.
Networking events can help you find new and interesting venues, connect you with corporate decision-makers, or put you in proximity to high-end clients. Whatever your reasons for attending, make your goals measurable and specific.
2. But Make This Your Top Goal
Sure, you’re in this to grow your event planning business. You want more helpful connections who can refer clients to you, hook you up with the best NYC caterers, or help you land that big corporate client. But none of these things will happen if you go into networking events on the hunt for your own selfish aims.
The things you want to achieve with networking can only happen within the framework of a community. As you know, humans are social animals who form communities of support with people they like and trust. Ergo, your top networking goal is to build a professional community. Be likable and trustworthy, and focus on building relationships. Do these things, and you can trust that the rest will naturally follow.
3. Do Your Research on the Organizers and Attendees
We are rounding the bend on the first quarter of the 21st century, and with it, decades of digital clutter memorializing our lives. Let’s just say it out loud: researching people online is no longer creepy, within reason. In fact, it’s commonplace.
Do a bit of research on the networking event, its organizers, speakers, and, if possible, other attendees before the big day. Not only will you make a good impression at the event, you’ll get more out of it as well. What you learn will help you make a list of people whom you’d like to meet.
You may discover that a speaker whom you have never heard of, in fact, wrote the book on destination weddings, your passion. Or you may discover that another attendee just planned an event at the new speakeasy uptown, a place you’re looking into but have heard mixed reviews about.
4. Polish Your Elevator Pitch — and Anticipate Questions
You already know that your elevator pitch is a prepared, concise speech that tells your listeners who you are, what you do, and why they should care. And you should practice it like you’re Meryl Streep going for your fourth Oscar win. Practicing your elevator speech is the best way to develop the muscle memory that will help you confidently recall the words when your palms are sweating.
So, practice in front of the mirror, but don’t stop there. Also, consider follow-up questions someone may have. Someone may wonder what got you into event planning, what kind of success you’ve had, or about the most awkward thing you’ve witnessed. Of course, you can’t anticipate all the questions. But taking the time to consider the obvious will help you make a good impression at a networking event.
5. Dress to the Nines
The way you dress is your first act of nonverbal communication. However, researchers are discovering there is more going on with the way we dress than just steering public perception. Your fashion choices also have a significant impact on your behavior, cognition, hormones, and even your moral compass.
So, make sure your attire, hygiene, and overall style communicate confidence and professionalism. You want to dress smartly for the networking event you attend. Even casual attire can be “dressed up” for an easygoing yet classy style.
6. Arrive On Time
Only people who are well-known can pull off arriving fashionably late. At networking events, where virtually no one knows anyone else, late arrivals are at a distinct disadvantage. When you arrive late at a networking event, you have to nudge your way into conversations that are already underway.
Nearly everyone arrives at a networking event with at least a little social anxiety and an eagerness to make connections. Everyone is keen to not be a lone wallflower. As a result, groups form quickly, and emotional bonds form as attendees collectively breathe a sigh of relief. You have a higher hill to climb if you arrive after this initial sorting of sorts.
7. Follow Up With New Connections
You’ll create a stronger professional community if you follow up with new connections. A quick “it was great to meet you” message will help them remember you after the event. But you can go further by inviting key connections to continue the conversation over coffee or lunch. Remember that building your community boils down to building relationships. Consistently following up with a friendly get-together will strengthen your new network.
Put Your New Networking Skills to Work at The Event Planner Expo 2025
Put your new skills on display with NYC’s top networking opportunity for event planners. The Event Planner Expo 2025 is your chance to wow thousands of event professionals with your polished elevator pitch and smart-casual blazer. And with three days of presentations from event industry leaders, you’ll pack your brain with new knowledge to help you grow your event business. Buy your tickets today!
