Certain public and private events put you in contact with people who you want to meet. It’s called being “in the room.” Networking events allow you to connect with people you don’t know or to reconnect with people you already know. There are many do’s and don’ts to networking. Here are a few simple “Do” tips that will help you maximize the time you have to network most effectively:

Purposefully enter the room. Bring a positive mindset with you. Otherwise, you will wander aimlessly into the room as if you don’t belong there. You are in the right room so own it!

Peruse who is in the room. If there is someone specific you want to meet or reconnect with, approach that person first.

Be prepared. Know where your business cards are (easy to retrieve).

Think of conversation starters. Scan the top news headlines before you go to the event; know what’s going on in your community and in the world. If you know someone specific will be attending the event, make sure you know what’s happening in his/her company or industry.

Bloom where you are planted. Every room as four areas to network: Near the entrance to the room, near the food, at the bar, and at the chilling area, where people stand or sit together for more intimate, relaxing conversations. These high-traffic areas are where most people congregate.

I will add five more “Do’s” to this list in my next posting.