Picture this: You’re at a bustling event, surrounded by interesting people, engaging booths, and an endless supply of coffee. You’re excited but after an hour of aimless wandering and exchanging business cards you’ll never look at again, you realize—this isn’t working.
The secret to making events productive? Having a goal.
Too many people walk into conferences, trade shows, and networking events hoping for magic connections to just…happen. But the real game-changer is knowing exactly who you want to meet—by name, by industry, or by discipline. Ideally, both!
Why Does This Matter?
When you define your targets in advance, you:
✅ Walk in with purpose instead of wandering aimlessly.
✅ Maximize your time by focusing on the right people.
✅ Use introductions strategically—leveraging hosts and attendees to get closer to key contacts.
✅ Make the room feel smaller, cutting through the noise to meaningful conversations.
How to Set Your Event Goal Like a Pro
1️⃣ Make a Hit List – Research who’s attending. Identify key names, industries, or roles that align with your objectives.
2️⃣ Use the Power of Leverage – Talk to hosts, panelists, and other attendees who can introduce you to the right people.
3️⃣ Be Laser-Focused – Instead of collecting random business cards, focus on building quality connections that align with your goal.
Now, Go Crush That Event!
Next time you step into an event, don’t just “see what happens.” Walk in with a goal, a strategy, and a mission to meet the right people. You’ll be amazed at how much more productive (and fun!) your experience will be.
So—what’s your goal for your next event? Let’s hear it in the comments!
Additional Resources
For more on this topic, we suggest reading “Making the Room Small: A Strategic Approach to B2B Trade Shows and Events“.
About
MEET helps international B2B & B2G companies gain traction and scale in the U.S. through trade shows, events, and strategic connections. Contact Bill Kenney for a no-obligation conversation: bill@meetroi.com or +1 (860) 573-4821.
