Don’t Become a Business Card Collector
We’ve all been there—you walk into a networking event, take a deep breath, and scan the room like you’re about to pick teams for dodgeball. Your palms are sweaty, your mind is racing with your perfectly memorized elevator pitch, and you’re clutching a stack of business cards like they’re your golden ticket.
Here’s the truth: nobody wants to meet a business card dispenser.
I’ve been to plenty of events where people make a beeline to hand you their card before they even ask your name. It’s like speed dating without the charm. The result? You leave with a purse, pocket, or briefcase full of cards you’ll never look at again, and no real connections to show for it.
Networking is supposed to be about building relationships, not about hitting a personal record for “most cards handed out in an hour.” And if you’re timid or unsure how to navigate the space (I’ve been there too), here are a few ways to make networking less like a sales pitch and more like a genuine conversation:
1. Lead with Curiosity
Instead of rushing to share what you do, ask about the other person first. “What inspired you to start your business?” or “What’s been your biggest win this year?” are great starters. People love to talk about themselves, and you’ll actually learn something.
2. Ease Into Your Elevator Pitch
It’s important to know how to describe your business, but your opening line shouldn’t sound like a commercial. Have your pitch ready, but let it flow naturally within the conversation. Listen first, respond genuinely, and share what you do when it fits—not as a rehearsed monologue.
3. Follow Up Like a Human, Not a Robot
Instead of sending a generic “Nice to meet you” email, reference something you discussed—maybe that taco truck they love or the podcast they recommended. It shows you were listening, not just collecting contact info.
At the end of the day, networking is about people, not paper. The best connections come when we stop worrying about saying the “right” thing and focus on making the other person feel heard. So go to your next event ready to collect conversations, not just business cards. Your future partnerships (and your overstuffed wallet) will thank you.
I look forward to connecting with you during Launch Week, September 29–October 3, 2025!
