How to Get the Most Out of Business Events (Even If You Hate Networking)

Let’s be honest even the most seasoned founder has, at some point, hovered awkwardly near the coffee machine pretending to check emails while secretly scanning the room for a familiar face.

Networking is difficult. It just is. But despite that, networking remains one of the most valuable tools we have for building meaningful business relationships.

This guide isn’t about becoming the loudest person in the room or delivering a flawless elevator pitch on command. It’s about showing up as a human being, having real conversations, and finding ways to make events work for you, even if you’d rather be anywhere else.

At Accsellerate, we’ve seen again and again that growth happens through people. So, here’s how to make the most of business events.

1. Why Events Still Matter in 2025 and How to Prepare for 2026

Yes, you can meet hundreds of people on LinkedIn without leaving your desk. Yes, you can sit in webinars with your camera off. But in-person interactions create a spark that digital communication just can’t replicate.

Real relationships start offline

There’s something about standing face to face with someone: reading their tone, warmth, facial expressions and sharing the little moments where someone laughs at the same line you did – that builds trust faster than any DMs ever will.

Serendipity thrives in real life

You go in expecting to talk to someone from Marketing. You walk out having met a future collaborator, a mentor, or someone who knows the exact supplier you’ve been trying to find for six months.

Visibility compounds

Showing up consistently signals I’m here! I’m committed! I’m part of this community! You become a familiar face that is more recognisable than a job title.

If you want 2026 to be a strong year, staying visible now while others are hiding behind their inboxes gives you a real advantage.

Events don’t close deals. But they start the relationships that close deals later.

2. The Hidden Value of Networking

If your only goal is “get leads”, you’ll end up disappointed and exhausted.

Events offer something far richer:

• Potential partnerships you didn’t know you needed

• Mentors or advisors who give you the right nudge at the right time

• Referrals from someone who liked you enough to remember your name

• The “dots” that don’t connect until months later

Here’s a story we see versions of all the time:

A founder goes to an industry event. They’re tired. They’re late. They decide to talk to the first person who isn’t already mid-conversation. That person, as it turns out, runs a small consultancy. Nothing dramatic. But six months later, that consultancy introduces them to a client who becomes one of their biggest accounts. Total coincidence. Completely unplanned. And it all started because they didn’t want to stand alone near the pastries.

Networking is unpredictable, and that’s the point.

3. “But I’m Not a Natural Networker…”

Most people aren’t, and here’s the refreshing truth: you don’t have to be.

You don’t need to glide across the room with perfect confidence. You don’t need to perform.

A huge number of successful founders and business leaders are introverts who would happily choose deep conversation over small talk any day. The pressure to “work the room” is outdated. What people really respond to now is authenticity.

If you ever feel awkward at an event, so does almost everyone else.

If you prefer talking to one person at a time, that means your conversations are often richer and more memorable.

If you’re worried about what to say, remember that simple curiosity carries conversations further than any pitch.

The goal isn’t to perform. The goal is to connect.

4. Practical Ways to Make Events Easier

Set a simple goal

Start small. Aim to talk to two or three people, not twenty. That alone removes half the pressure.

Prepare 1-2 opening lines not a pitch

Think of a couple of easy conversational openers that help break the ice, like asking what brought someone to the event or whether they’ve been before. You’d be amazed how relieved other people feel when someone else starts the conversation.

Look for people standing alone

People standing alone usually aren’t wishing to be left alone; they’re silently hoping someone will rescue them. Approaching them is an act of kindness, not intrusion.

Follow the energy

Pay attention to how the conversation feels. If someone lights up talking to you, follow that thread. If things feel forced, it’s perfectly okay to wrap it up politely and move on.

Take breaks

Everyone gets drained. Sneak out for air or recharge near refreshments. The people who last the evening aren’t the ones who push through nonstop; they’re the ones who give themselves space.

Put your phone away

It’s a safety blanket but it signals “do not disturb.” Even holding a drink in one hand helps reduce the urge to “scroll-hide.”

5. The Follow-Up Is the Real Superpower

Here’s the part where almost everyone slips - the follow-up. You could have three brilliant conversations at an event and still walk away with zero momentum if you don’t continue the connection afterward.

A simple message sent within 24–48 hours can turn a three-minute chat into the start of something meaningful.

Try lines like:

• “Great to meet you yesterday, I enjoyed our conversation about X.”

• “You mentioned Y; here’s the link/article I promised you.”

• “Would love to continue our chat over a quick coffee next week if you’re up for it.”

This is where Accsellerate’s growth ethos quietly comes in because consistency beats intensity. Small follow-ups can build into real opportunities.

6. A Closing Thought

Business events aren’t really about business. They’re about people, their challenges, their excitement, their ideas. You’re not trying to win everyone over. You’re simply creating the possibility of connection.

Events aren’t about exchanging business cards. They’re about exchanging stories. Show up, stay open and be yourself, you never know where one good conversation may lead.