Expert Advice for Tampa Bay Wedding Pros: Speed Networking 101
We are super excited for our SOLD OUT Tampa Bay wedding speed networking event at NOVA 535, and we wanted to share some advice with our fellow wedding pros on making the most out of the event.
The purpose of speed networking is to not only meet people who you don't already know, but it's an easy way to make that initial introduction, so that you can schedule a follow-up meeting to connect on a deeper basis.
The Format:
Over 50 Tampa Bay wedding professionals are registered, so this will be a great opportunity to meet and mingle.
5-5:45 p.m. Networking and Enjoying Apps from Delectables Catering and Desserts from Alessi's Bakery
5:45 -7:30 p.m. Speed Networking
Please make sure you arrive no later than 5:30 p.m. so that you can receive your table assignments. With such a large group, we have to start at 5:45 p.m.
Once the speed networking portion begins, you'll have three minutes to speak about yourself and your business. Instead of delivering this in a one-on-one environment, you'll be delivering this to your entire table, which will be 8-9 people. If there is time leftover (for some of us three minutes will be an eternity and for others 30 minutes wouldn't be enough), the other vendors can ask you questions.
After your turn, you'll listen to everyone else at your table give their three minute speech, exchange business cards and then switch tables and do it all over again with a new group of people. (Please note, you may occasionally be seated with someone whom you just networked with, but we've tried to limit that as much as possible).
With this format, you will meet with approximately 25 people during the Speed Networking portion, plus the opportunity to network from 5-5:45 p.m.
The Pitch:
Word to the wise…plan your pitch BEFORE the event, so you don't spend the first minute of your three minutes trying to figure out what to say.
A good format to follow:
- Name, business, title, location of your business
- What type of business/services or products you provide
- What makes your business different from others in your category
- Accomplishments/goals/new products or services launching in the future
- Teaser as to what you'd like to discuss if you were to schedule a future one-on-one appointment with someone from your table
What to Bring:
- Lots of business cards…at least 60!
- Pen/paper to take notes on, so you know what you want to discuss with this person in the future
- A smile on your face
- Cash for the bar, if you want to drink adult beverages
- Sign up for a free Uber ride! (First time clients only)
- Street parking only (Please do NOT park in St. Anthony’s across the street).
A huge thanks to all of our sponsors who have assisted with the event:
Venue: NOVA 535 Unique Event Space
Catering: Delectables Fine Catering
Desserts: Alessi Bakeries
Florals: Apple Blossoms Floral Design
Linens: Over the Top Linens
Stationary: Invitation Consultants
