The floor layout at each event is somewhat different. Are you going to be sitting at tables or theater style? Where are my friends sitting? Is there an aisle seat so that my legs will be comfortable? Maybe I should take a seat in back, just in case I want to leave early. I should grab a seat quickly, so I can sit where there is a good view. My company has a table at the event, maybe I should sit there. NOT...If your purpose is to network, the rule is simple...SIT NEXT TO PEOPLE YOU DON’T KNOW.
If you came to the event with people you know or you know some of the participants, separate from them...you can connect with them later. Networking is first about expanding your sphere of influence...the number of people you know. Company tables are great, but those seats should be occupied by your customers and the big wigs who are entertaining them.
One simple strategy is to not sit until the seating is somewhat full and then choose a seat in the middle of a densely populated area. Ideally you have someone you don’t know to your right, left, in front of you, and behind you.
Once you’re seated, introduce yourself around, find out who you’re sitting next to, and exchange cards. Learn as much as you can about the people that you are sitting with.
The purpose of attending events is to identify people who you should meet with one-on-one. The more people that you sit next to the greater the possibility.
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