Ice breakers
When you go to networking events what are some ways that you break the ice? I've heard that complimenting the person (on their outfit, accessories, etc.) is a great idea. What else have you heard?
I found a great article online about networking etiquette. The article offers lots of great advice, but read the "Small Talk" and "Impress with Your First Impression" sections. You will find some very helpful tips and advice here. The article can be found at: http://www.sideroad.com/Business_Etiquette/networking-etiquette.html
Good Luck!
I find myself forgetting the other person's name! I know it is really bad but I am too concentrated on meeting the person and getting my name out there, that their name slips my mind!
It's an easy mistake to make, IngaO. One way to avoid this is to ask for their card. When they give it to you, take the time to really look at it, paying attention to their name and title. This can give you a good opportunity to ask about their job or their company, too. And as soon as you can afterwards, write a note on the back of the card with the date, the event, and a couple of keywords about what you talked about. This can be useful if you want to follow up with a note or email later.
I think the repetition of the person's name is a great tactic. However, I try to avoid overly stating the name as sometimes it comes off as a bit condescending.
A great way to remember names is to repeat the other person's name right after they introduce themselves. For instance they say "Hi I'm Jessica." And you reply with "What do you do Jessica?" Or something like that. This works because you are hearing their name again and using it yourself! I hope this helps you remember in the future!
I find myself forgetting the other person's name! I know it is really bad but I am too concentrated on meeting the person and getting my name out there, that their name slips my mind!
Big mistake-- I guess this is what you should do your best to avoid.
Also, if you are introduced to someone through someone else or you have heard anything about the person's work/organization that you are meeting, it makes you sound intelligent and interested if you ask the other person an informed question about his/her job.
i.e.-- If you are talking to a rep from Harvard business school, you could ask, "So I've found that you all use the case method in class, could you tell me more about this?"
It pays to do your homework before you go to events!
Hi Jessica,
I find that technique usually works great. Anything to show that you are taking an interest in that person will usually make people open, warm and receptive. Another tactic is to be of help somehow-- clue them in on a fabulous restaurant, offer a bit of advice, tell them about a website that they might find useful, etc. Take something that they mention in the conversation and think of what you know that could help them.
Good luck 
i typically listen in on what theya re talking about and later bring something up again and say i over heard them say they like this, or do that. then, i apply it to my likes and preferences to trigger a conversation.