Attending My First Networking Event!!!

I will be attending my very first networking event on Nov. 21st at a steak house. Happy hour type atmosphere. I'm 100% sure I will not know one person there. What is expected at these events? I'm going to meet other people and I always hear about how important networking is but short of walking straight up to a person and saying "Hi, my name is Danielle" I'm not sure what to do. What is the proper etiquette for these events?

I think frankly that's a great approach. If you don't know anybody, you have to start somewhere! I don't know if you are on the property management side or supplier side, but if its the latter, I would make sure to not jump into a sales pitch. Talking business will come in time, once they get to know you. I think the best plan is to have a long-term feel. So try to meet a certain number of people, and then make sure to attend later events and say hello to those people. Familiarity is the key in my opinion, so let them see you attend several events. That will help them see that you are not just a one-event person, and hopefully inspire to take time getting to know you.

Networking is awesome! Depending on the formality of the event, you might want to wear the I.D. badge you wear at work, a button or pin identifying your industry, or just a colorful "HELLO, my name is..." sticker.

My first networking event was a chamber of commerce meeting that was a disappointment. No one there was looking for an apartment. But I did make a few connections that were helpful to my residents, like a pet sitter, a notary, and a locksmith. The most important thing I learned is that most people who attend networking events are not seeking what I have to sell (an apartment.) A vendor isn't likely going to be looking for another vendor, they are looking for a customer, and customers don't usually attend networking events.

I regularly attend local landlord forums, but I've actually had much better luck at non-industry and non-networking events. Ham radio class, CERT team, Citizen's academy, and most recently from my church.

Good Luck!

It's a MMHA (Maryland Mulit-Housing Association) networking event. It was sent to me in an email because apparently I'm an MMHA member through my company. I reluctantly RSVP'd because I wasn't sure if that was something I could attend or not. I am a Leasing Consultant with 2 years of experience. My entire staff has literally been fired and I have a whole new team. So I've been left with no contacts. I am currently looking for a new job and although I have been advised NOT to announce that at the event I thought it was still a good place to start.