You show up at a networking event, ready to expand your professional circle. But as you start chatting, it feels like everyone has the same agenda: sell, sell, sell. Business cards are flying, elevator pitches are rehearsed to perfection, and you can tell when someone’s just waiting for their turn to talk.

But what if networking didn’t have to be that way? What if, instead of seeing every conversation as a transaction, you asked yourself one simple question:

“How can I help this person?”

That’s the real power of networking—not just filling your pipeline, but building genuine, mutually beneficial connections that lead to long-term success. And speed networking is the perfect way to start.

Think of speed networking like structured, high-energy introductions—without the pressure to make an immediate sale. You’ll have a few minutes to chat with each person, exchange ideas, and see where there’s potential to collaborate. Then, you move on to the next introduction.

By the end of the event, you’ve met a roomful of professionals, planted the seeds for future partnerships, and—most importantly—had real conversations that go beyond a typical business pitch.

Traditional networking can feel like a free-for-all, where you either luck out with great connections or spend most of the time making small talk that goes nowhere. Speed networking changes the game by offering:

More Connections in Less Time – Meet a variety of professionals quickly, instead of hoping to bump into the right people at a crowded event.
💡 And hey, are you the type that just can’t stand to make an awkward exit from a conversation that’s gone on a little too long? You’ll love this format.

A No-Pressure Approach – You don’t have to seal a deal or make a sale. Just introduce yourself, find common ground, and see where it leads. 

A Focus on Relationships, Not Just Referrals – The best networkers aren’t just looking for what they can get—they’re looking for ways to help.

A Great Way to Practice Your Pitch – If talking about your business feels daunting, this format gives you multiple chances to refine what you say.

Speed networking might be new to you, but don’t worry—you’ll catch on fast. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1️⃣ Ditch the Hard Sell. Nobody wants to be hit with a sales pitch 30 seconds into meeting you. Focus on introducing yourself naturally and finding common ground. We’re all people after all, not just professions. Our goal is to build a strong, connected community. 

2️⃣ Ask Great Questions. Instead of leading with “What do you do?” try “What’s a big challenge you’re working on right now?” You’ll have a more interesting conversation—and a better chance of offering real value.

Here are some other great conversation starters:

• How would your #1 client describe you?
• What’s the most interesting project you took on in the last year or so?
• What do you like most about what you do? (thanks, Alie Ward!)

3️⃣ Think About How You Can Help. Maybe you have a great contact to introduce. Maybe you know a tool that could solve someone’s problem. Be a resource, not just a card in their pocket. Valuable connections tend to get more repeat business, and these positive, mutually-beneficial relationships will naturally perform better over time. 

4️⃣ Follow Up. The real magic of networking happens after the event. If you connected with someone, send a quick message or email to keep the conversation going! Think of these connections like putting seeds in a pot — they’ll still need a little water to get started. 

There are plenty of spaces to meet for a more in-depth conversation, whether that’s a coffee shop, coworking space, library, or even through the magic of the internet. Keep in mind that face-to-face interactions will always be more effective, as so much of our communication is non-verbal. 

If you’re in and around Saratoga Springs, this is your chance to meet new people, grow your network, and have meaningful conversations—all in a fun, structured, and efficient format.

📅 Date: February 19th
📍 Location: Franklin Square Market, 55 Railroad Pl.
⏰ Time: 5:30PM

Bring your business cards (lots of ’em!), an open mind, and a mindset of helping first. You never know where one great conversation might lead!