Jemicah Marasigan
Content Marketing Manager
Walking into a networking event can feel intimidating—even a little overwhelming.
It’s a room full of strangers, each handshake and smile carrying the pressure of making a good impression. But here’s the thing: networking doesn’t have to feel like a chore, and it certainly doesn’t have to be scary. There are unique networking tips and approachable ways to navigate these situations that make it easier (and dare we say, enjoyable) to connect with people.
Let’s be honest: it’s tough to stand out when everyone is armed with business cards and well-rehearsed pitches. The key is to focus on building genuine, memorable connections—and that’s where these unique networking tips come in.
For agency owners, consultants, media professionals, and coaches, networking isn’t about blending in or ticking boxes. It’s about showing up as your authentic self, shaking things up, and creating moments that leave people talking about you long after the event ends. Plus, it’s a great thing to tap into when your business is experiencing a slow season.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the cookie-cutter small talk and bring some fresh energy to the table, these unique networking tips are your golden ticket to turning heads, sparking conversations, and building connections that truly matter.
1. Make yourself a walking icebreaker
Forget blending in. Instead stand out! Wear something colorful or quirky that sparks curiosity. A bright blazer, funky tie, or even a lapel pin with a story can work wonders. Not only will people recognize you from across the room, but it also gives them an easy conversation starter. “Hey, I love your jacket—what’s the story behind it?” Suddenly, you’ve gone from a stranger to a memorable personality.
2. Create a "faces of the event" digital folder
Post-event overwhelm is real, and people often forget the great connections they made. Screenshot their LinkedIn profile or Instagram account after connecting.
A few days later, send them a follow-up message like, “Loved chatting about [topic]—let’s keep the conversation going!” It’s personal, intentional, and keeps you top-of-mind.
This makes following up with them, once you add them, more personal and prevents the dreaded, “Remind me where we met?”
3. Make your name unforgettable
If your name is unique or rare, use it as a way to stand out. While people may mispronounce it at first, personal experience shows this is actually a great way to break the ice. When correcting them, or introducing yourself, try something like, “Hi, I’m Jemicah—like the name Micah with some Je in front of it!”
A little humor or a memorable comparison not only helps people get it right but also makes you more relatable.
Or, if your name has a unique origin or meaning, consider working that into your introduction. For instance, “My name’s Kai—it means ‘ocean’ in Hawaiian, which works because I try to stay calm no matter how wild things get.”
And even if your name is more common, there are still fun and creative ways to make it stick in people’s minds. If you’re introducing yourself as John, for example, you could add a playful twist: “Hi, I’m John—yep, just like the millions of other Johns out there, but I promise you won’t forget this one.” A little humor can turn an ordinary name into a conversation starter.
Another option? Pair your name with something unique about you. For example: “I’m Sarah—but most people know me as the Sarah who always has the best coffee recommendations.”
Tying your name to a fun fact, hobby, or quirk helps people associate you with more than just your name, making it memorable whether it’s common or unique.
4. QR codes and scanning are your secret networking weapon
Add a QR code with your socials, portfolio, or website to your phone’s lock screen. When someone asks for your details, you won’t have to fumble for a business card—just hold up your phone, and they can scan it in seconds. Bonus points for the tech-savvy impression.
And, if you like to manage all your contacts with a client relationship management (CRM) platform, Copper has feature that lets you snap a pic of business cards on the spot, and adds the information directly to your contact list. It’s a quick and easy way to keep all information on hand from everyone you meet—literallly!
5 Bring value before you ask for it
Networking isn’t about what you can take: it’s about what you can give. Before asking for a favor or pitching an idea, offer something useful. Did they mention needing help with social media? Share a quick tip or resource. Are they struggling to find a good CRM? Drop a recommendation like Copper. Small gestures of generosity create lasting impressions.
6. Host a micro-mastermind over coffee
Instead of generic one-on-ones, gather 3 to 5 people you meet at a conference and invite them for an impromptu coffee chat. Frame it as a brainstorming session: “I’d love to hear what everyone’s working on and share ideas.” This not only positions you as a connector but also creates a collaborative energy that people remember.
7. Carry conversation starters—literally
Keep a unique item in your bag that sparks intrigue. Maybe it’s a deck of thought-provoking question cards or a small notebook filled with creative prompts. During lulls in conversation, pull it out and say, “Let’s pick a random question and see where it takes us!” It’s unexpected and instantly shifts the dynamic.
8. Be the photographer of the moment
Everyone loves a good photo from an event, but few think to take them. Snap candid shots of small groups or key moments and share them afterward with a quick message: “Here’s a great shot from [event] I thought you’d enjoy!” It’s a thoughtful way to reconnect while showing your creativity.
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9. Offer a standout digital resource
Why not give people something they’ll actually use? A digital resource is a creative way to stay memorable. Picture this: you hand someone a QR code, and when they scan it, they get a little goldmine of valuable insights.If you run an agency, it could be a quick guide on streamlining client workflows or a checklist for nailing campaigns. If you’re a consultant, how about a cheat sheet of solutions to common challenges in your field or a list of tools that make life easier? And for media pros, imagine sharing a trend forecast, tips for upping audience engagement, or even a simple toolkit for creating killer content.The best part? They get something super helpful and your contact info in one go.
10. Be a human connection hub
Think of yourself as the ultimate matchmaker at networking events. If you meet someone who would benefit from knowing another person there, make the introduction right away.
For example, if you’re chatting with a media professional passionate about audience trends and remember meeting an agency owner working on a cutting-edge campaign, connect the dots: “You two have to meet—you’re both so into [topic]!”
It’s one of those unique networking tips that instantly sets you apart. People will start to associate you with being generous and valuable—a true connector who brings others together.
11. Set networking goals that go beyond numbers
Ditch the idea of collecting business cards like trading cards. Instead, focus on setting meaningful networking goals that emphasize quality over quantity. Rather than trying to meet 20 people, aim to have three memorable conversations or walk away with two fresh insights.
This approach not only makes networking more enjoyable but also helps you prioritize genuine human connections over superficial introductions. Those deeper conversations will leave a much stronger impression.
12. The “pay it forward” social media shout-out
Don’t let the connections you make at events fizzle out once you leave. Afterward, jump on LinkedIn or Instagram and post a shout-out to highlight the incredible people you met. Something like, “Had an amazing chat with [Name] about [topic] at [event]. Their work on [link] is incredible!”
This is one of those tips that helps you stand out because it’s not just about boosting your own visibility—it’s about celebrating others. Plus, it’s a great way to stay on their radar while showcasing your generosity and support.
13. Master the art of active listening
Let’s face it: most people at networking events are so focused on delivering their pitch that they forget to actually listen. Be the exception. When you’re talking to someone, give them your full attention. Nod, ask thoughtful follow-up questions, and repeat back key points to show you’re engaged.
This is one of those tips that might seem small but makes a massive impact. Being a genuine listener isn’t just rare—it’s unforgettable. You’ll leave people feeling heard, valued, and eager to stay connected.
14. Create post-networking habit
Stand out from the crowd by adopting a habit that makes your networking efforts truly memorable. For instance, you could send a handwritten thank-you note to a key connection the day after the event or share a personal takeaway from the experience on social media that you can turn into an engaging piece of thought leadership.
These little habits or steps show thoughtfulness and reinforce your presence in a meaningful way. Over time, these can become your signature style, setting you apart from the rest.
15. Host a virtual post-event hangout
Why let a great networking event end at the door? Afterward, reach out to a few people you really clicked with and invite them to a casual virtual hangout. Frame it as an informal debrief, something like, “Let’s share insights from the event and keep the conversation going!”
This unique networking tip is a fantastic way to deepen connections and collaborate on ideas that might’ve sparked during the event. Plus, it’s one way to keep the momentum alive long after the event wraps up.
16. Turn "What do you do?" into "Why do you do it?"
Let’s face it—“What do you do?” is the default networking question everyone asks, and honestly, it’s not exactly memorable. Instead, shake things up by diving deeper. Ask questions that tap into someone’s purpose and passion, like “What drives you in your work?” or “What’s been the most rewarding part of your journey?”
These types of questions go beyond surface-level small talk and invite people to share the stories and motivations that light them up.
Not only does this approach make the conversation more engaging, but it also sets you apart as someone who genuinely cares about what makes people tick. Plus, it creates an opportunity for a more authentic connection—one that’s fueled by shared values or inspiration, not just job titles.
After all, networking isn’t just about knowing what someone does; it’s about understanding why they do it.
Networking doesn't have to be a chore
Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or memorizing elevator pitches—it’s about building relationships that matter. By embracing these unique networking tips, you’re shifting the focus from simply growing your contact list to creating meaningful moments that resonate. The connections you make should feel less like transactions and more like genuine opportunities to share ideas, collaborate, and grow.
So, the next time you step into a room buzzing with possibilities, don’t just blend in. Let your personality and purpose shine through. Ask the deeper questions, offer value, and show up in ways that make people remember not just what you do but why you do it. The right people will notice—and they’ll want to keep the conversation going.
Networking isn’t about following the same old script. It’s about writing your own and making sure it’s as bold, memorable, and authentic as you are.
