Many people feel right at home when they are the host of an event. They feel comfortable with the responsibility and confident they can accomplish whatever needs to be done. They are relaxed, which makes their guests feel relaxed, too. For these people, hosting an event is just like being at home.
Being a host within the networking process works in the same way. When you are attending an event, take a minute to get comfortable and relax, then go out and host! You don't have to impress anyone. All you have to do is welcome them, show sincere appreciation for their being there, and ask what you can do to help them. It's as simple as taking an interest in someone else.
When you act like a host instead of a guest, you are striving to make others comfortable with their surroundings. You want them to be relaxed and to feel nurtured so they are more at ease; and thus, more open to doing business with you.
Being a good host can be easily accomplished through the following exercise: The next time you attend a networking event, such as your local Chamber of Commerce-After Hours program, walk up to the first person you don't know and say: "Hi, my name is_____, I'm glad you could make it this evening. I really enjoy these events because it gives me an opportunity to meet new people. What do you do?" This exercise sounds basic, and it needs to be. Through this exercise, you are acting as a host and treating the person you just met as your guest - you introduce yourself, make them feel welcome, answer any questions they may have, and take an interest in them. Your strategy as a host is to shift attention from who you are to who they are.
In addition to the previous exercise, here is another step - after you meet a second new person, introduce him or her to the first new person you met. This action reflects an incredible act of generosity on your part. You can't develop a greater networking strategy than to introduce people to people. This action is simple and easy to do and quickly lays the foundation for building lasting, winning relationships with those individuals you meet and introduce.
The main distinction between a party you are hosting at home and a public networking opportunity is the location. But you can still be the host. All you have to do is be aware of the people around you and the general needs of those individuals. Many people have no idea how to get things done or what to do next at a networking function. By showing your willingness to support their efforts and help direct their energies, you can make a difference and be remembered long after the event has ended.
Acting like a host and not as a guest is the quickest way to make you the key networker at any event you attend.