5 Speed Networking Tips That Actually Work
Master speed networking with these proven strategies. Learn how to make meaningful professional connections in just 3 minutes per conversation.
Speed networking is one of the most efficient ways to grow your professional network — but only if you do it right. Here are five battle-tested tips from hundreds of events and thousands of connections.
1. Lead With Curiosity, Not Your Pitch
The biggest mistake newcomers make? Launching into a 90-second elevator pitch. Nobody wants to hear your sales deck at a networking event.
Instead, ask genuine questions. “What are you working on that excites you right now?” opens doors that “Let me tell you about my company” never will.
The irony: when you focus on learning about the other person, they become far more interested in learning about you.
2. Prepare Your 10-Second Intro
You don’t need a pitch — you need a hook. Something short, memorable, and conversation-starting:
- ❌ “I’m a financial advisor at XYZ Corp specializing in retirement planning for high-net-worth individuals.”
- ✅ “I help people retire 10 years earlier than they think they can.”
Practice this until it feels natural. You’ll use it 15+ times in one evening.
3. Take Notes Immediately
After each rotation, write one thing on the back of their business card (or in your phone):
- What you discussed
- A follow-up action item
- Something personal they mentioned
This turns a forgotten face into a real connection when you follow up the next day.
4. Follow Up Within 24 Hours
This is where 90% of networkers fail. You meet great people, collect cards, and then… nothing.
The follow-up is where the real value lives. Send a brief, personalized message within 24 hours:
“Great meeting you at Speed Networkers last night! Loved hearing about your approach to [specific thing]. Would love to continue that conversation over coffee.”
That’s it. Short, personal, actionable.
5. Set a Connection Goal, Not a Card Goal
Don’t try to meet everyone. Try to have 3-5 genuinely great conversations. Quality connections lead to referrals, partnerships, and real business. A stack of 30 business cards leads to a cluttered desk.
Before each event, set an intention: “I want to find one person I’d genuinely enjoy having lunch with.” That mindset shift changes everything.
Ready to put these tips into practice? Check out our upcoming events and grab your ticket today.