There are certain etiquettes to learn in order to be a successful in-person networker. It’s rarely about who is in the room, but who THEY know that are your prospective new clients. One networking meeting a year is not going to produce new clients, you have to attend as many as you can, and get known in the local networking arena. People will forget you unless you are in their presence frequently. 
Although you need to confidently introduce yourself to those in attendance, don’t interrupt ongoing conversations, it’s just plain rude. Wait patiently to speak with the person you are interested in meeting, even if that means standing on line to do so. Smile, look folks in the eye, and repeat their name when you meet them.
In addition, be professional. Keep your language appropriate. Get known as a really positive, approachable person. People will warm up to you for being so. Speak ill of no one in the group.
Curious people will gather around those who remain positive and calm under pressure, and who resist the herding tendencies of cliques and the less confident attendees.
Wear something memorable, and dress appropriately for the type of group you’re attending. For instance, at a group for the trades, a suit would be off-putting. If meeting executives and sales people, a suit might be necessary. Wear bright-colored article of clothing, a fancy name tag, statement jewelry – anything that will help those you meet remember you.
Don’t forget the most important thing; a firm and welcoming handshake goes a long way. If you’ve never been taught how to shake someone’s hand, ask someone you know who has a good handshake to teach you. There’s nothing more off-putting than a wimpy handshake! Right away the feeling is that the person who gives a weak shake is not assertive enough to act on your behalf as a vendor or provider and gain your best interests. “Weak represents weak” in the mind of the person you’re meeting.
– Danielle Fry, Director of Creative Services


