You are probably familiar with Speed Networking events and the way they work. Basically, an even amount of professionals are seated across from each other and given a few minutes to talk before time is up and they rotate to the next person. This happens several times until each person has successfully met everyone in the room. It is a great way to meet dozens of professionals in one sitting.

However, what do you do at the conventional networking event, in which there is a room full of business people who are randomly speaking with one another? Simple, you can employ Speed Networking techniques at a conventional event. You should only do this if meeting a mass amount of professionals is your goal or maybe you are strapped for time. You may have other valid reasons but nevertheless, here are 5 steps for achieving this objective;

1. Have an Elevator Pitch locked and loaded.

An Elevator Pitch is a 15 to 45 second commercial about the better points of your products or services. It should be designed to be brief, interesting, impactful, and informative. I say "locked and loaded" because it should be memorized and ready to be delivered at any given moment.

2. Have a goal on the minimum amount of contacts you would like to interact with.

In a typical Speed Networking event, it is possible to meet 30 or more individuals in one sitting. In these events, you do not have to set a number because it is set for you. However, in a conventional event, you should set your parameters.

3. Have a method of keeping time.

At a Speed Networking event, all of the interactions are timed. However, in this case, you will have to take this responsibility upon yourself. Simply wear a watch with a second hand or some kind of digital time device will do. Pay attention to your time as you speak to different people.

4. Have a rock solid Conversation Exit Strategy. (CES)

When you speak to so many people very briefly, you want to make sure that you are not rude or abrupt. You should practice a very polite way of ending one conversation and engaging in another.

You should have a few different ones memorized. Remember, you are supposed to be making a good impression. So, make sure you pay special attention to your words and actions.

5. Make sure you leave a positive impression every time.

This is the most subjective and tricky part of the whole process. You want to attempt to make a positive and lasting impression on your new contacts.

There are many ways to do this. The first thing that comes to mind is to be friendly, professional, and to give a good listen to what the other person has to say. Sure, brevity is your theme but you must show genuine interest in a short period of time.