The last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the world of networking. The pandemic drastically changed how events were planned, hosted, and attended, with a shift to 100% virtual during the height of the pandemic. We are now in a pivot as the world reopens. While many of us are eager, the reopening comes with great uncertainty.

But there are benefits of attending in-person events if you can. Being out and engaging with others can increase your mood, and networking is made so much easier. It gives you the opportunity to make a good first impression to potential clients or employers. Additionally, you are able to make observations and credible judgments from those connections.

Getting back into the networking game can be challenging, and you may be wondering how to network in the new paradigm. Start with preparation. Research the event, the topics and content for discussion, and concerns or challenges in the field.

From here, the acronym SHARE can help:

Sparks. Walk around the room and make eye contact, smile, and identify sparks of energy and connections. Approach one of these sparks and start a conversation.

Highlight. Point out something positive about the event or your new acquaintance to strike up a conversation.

Ask. To keep the conversation flowing, ask your new acquaintance questions and share information. Discuss new or emerging trends or challenges in the field. Be sure to listen and ask follow-up questions.

Retain. Ask for information from your new contacts, such as their email or phone number. Take notes or request a business card.

Engage. Determine who you can introduce your new friend to and have them do the same. If you do find common interests in the people you have met, invite them to form a networking group.

And just like that, you have networked! Hopefully you’ve made new friends, and maybe even formed a group and established a meeting time or space.

About the Author

Simone McLaughlin is a trained competency-based educator in the field of hospitality and works with students to hone their skills and become employment-ready. With a passion for service, Simone has conducted research and worked with the Migrante group to highlight the needs and concerns of temporary international workers.