Tips for Women Attending Networking Events: Etiquette, Expectations, and Small Tips for Success
Networking events can be both exciting and intimidating, especially for women who may find themselves navigating rooms full of unfamiliar faces, or even surrounded by rooms full of men in black suits. Whether you’re attending your first event or you’re a seasoned pro, knowing the ins and outs of networking etiquette can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the event with confidence, build meaningful connections, and make the most of your time.
- Avoid a Boring Elevator Pitch
First impressions matter, and at networking events, 
you only have a short amount of time to make an impact. Prepare an elevator pitch that makes people remember you. Keep it under a minute—just enough time to grab someone’s attention and leave them wanting to know more. The key is to strike a balance between being professional and approachable. Avoid being too formal or too casual.
Tip: Practice your pitch until it feels natural, and be flexible enough to adjust it based on the flow of the conversation.
- Dress the Part
What you wear can influence how you’re perceived, so dress appropriately for the event. It’s always helpful to check the venue details in advance to determine if the event is indoor or outdoor, especially in cities like Bangkok, where weather can be unpredictable. For example, avoid wearing a full suit to an outdoor event during the summer heat, or a sleeveless outfit in a chilly conference room.
Choose attire that aligns with the industry and the venue while ensuring comfort. For a business event, lean towards professional wear like a suit or a smart dress. For a more casual networking mixer, business-casual attire is usually sufficient.
Tip: When in doubt, it’s safer to go slightly more formal than too casual. It’s easier to tone down an outfit than to make it more polished if needed.
- Be Mindful of Body Language
Your body language speaks volumes, so use it wisely. Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and smile! Avoid crossing your arms as it can make you seem closed off. Instead, aim to convey friendliness and approachability through open body language. When speaking with someone, nod occasionally to show you’re actively listening.
Tip: Pay attention to the other person’s body language too. If they seem distracted or uncomfortable, it might be time to wrap up the conversation politely.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Introduce Yourself
Entering a room full of strangers can feel intimidating, but remember, everyone is there for the same reason: to make connections. Don’t shy away from introducing yourself, even if it feels awkward at first. Most people are just as nervous as you and will appreciate the effort.
Tip: If you’re unsure how to begin, ask open-ended questions about the event or someone’s career. This encourages a natural conversation and allows you to learn more about the person you’re talking to.
- Respect Time
Networking events often have many attendees, and everyone’s time is limited. Don’t monopolize someone’s time for too long—especially if the event is short. If you feel the conversation has reached its natural conclusion, politely exit and thank the person for their time. Likewise, if you’re approached by someone who seems eager to chat, be mindful of their time too.
Tip: In group conversations, make sure everyone has a chance to speak. Be inclusive and avoid letting one person dominate the discussion.
- Follow-Up After the Event
One of the most important aspects of networking is the follow-up. After the event, take a few minutes to send a personalized message or email thanking the person for their time and reinforcing your connection. Reference something specific you discussed to remind them of who you are. A thoughtful follow-up can turn a brief encounter into a lasting professional relationship.
Tip: Keep your follow-up brief and focused on the value you can offer, not just what you’re hoping to gain from the other person.
- Do Your Research
Before attending a networking event, it’s helpful to research the attendees, especially if there are notable speakers or guests. This gives you a better understanding of the people you may be talking to and helps you tailor your approach. If you know someone who works in a field you’re interested in will be there, prepare a few questions or conversation starters.
Tip: Bring a few business cards but don’t overdo it. Offering a business card is a nice gesture, but your primary focus should be on building a genuine connection first.
- The Dos and Don’ts: Networking Etiquette for Women
Do:
- Be genuinely interested in others.
- Ask thoughtful questions to keep the conversation flowing.
- Be mindful of personal space.
- Listen more than you speak.
- Offer value—whether it’s advice, a helpful introduction, or insights.
- Be authentic. Real connections matter more than surface-level interactions.
Don’t:
- Don’t interrupt or talk over others.
- Don’t immediately ask for favors or jobs.
- Don’t dominate conversations with your achievements.
- Don’t be too shy to approach people, but don’t come across as pushy.
- Don’t forget to follow up within a few days to maintain the connection.
- Small Tips for Success
- Smile and be approachable: A smile can be your best friend. It breaks the ice and makes others feel more comfortable approaching you.
- Carry a notebook or app for notes: Take quick notes after each conversation to remember key details about the person or what you talked about. This helps you follow up effectively.
- Avoid gossip: Keep the conversation professional and steer away from negative talk about people, businesses, or competitors.
- Be mindful of your phone: Don’t let your phone distract you. Keep it on silent or in your bag to show respect for the person you’re talking to.
- Enjoy the Experience
Networking is not just about securing immediate results; it’s about planting seeds for future opportunities. If you approach it with the right mindset, networking can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Rather than viewing it as a task, think of it as an opportunity to learn from others, share knowledge, and build meaningful professional relationships.
Tip: Networking doesn’t always yield instant results. Be patient and view it as a long-term investment in your professional growth. You never know where a conversation might lead!
In conclusion, attending networking events offers an invaluable opportunity for personal and professional growth. By preparing in advance, maintaining the right mindset, and adhering to proper etiquette, women can forge meaningful connections that can positively impact their careers. Step into the room with confidence, be authentic, and make the most of the network you’re building!
About Nina Phinnipha Suriyong
With over 15 years in executive search, Nina has placed top talent across industries like manufacturing, automotive, electronics, chemical, retail, and life sciences. She founded APlus Career Recruitment Co., Ltd. in 2022, a boutique agency specializing in recruitment and HR solutions.
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