Research My Networking Event - Step 4: Audience Alignment

You’ve RSVP’d, picked out your outfit, and rehearsed your intro. This event feels like it could be the one. But when you walk in, everyone’s lovely AND totally unrelated to your goals. It’s like showing up to a costume party in a three-piece suit. You look great, but you’re not in the right room. Let’s fix that.

Before you head to your next networking event, do a little digging into...

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#4 Networking Audience Alignment

 

Are invited attendees from your target industry, role, or professional level?

 Are they decision-makers, connectors, or collaborators relevant to your current focus?

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Will the room be full of people aligned with your goals and focus?

If yes, then you guessed it, higher stakes networking event.

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Want some tips on the Practiced Professional's approach to looking into audience alignment?

Let’s say you’ve applied to join a selective professional association. Their annual conference is around the corner. Could this be an opportunity to connect with people who make decisions on the application process, who would benefit from knowing you in person?

Here’s the move:

1. Visit the association’s site. Peek at board members, the application committee, or leadership team.

2. Look them up on LinkedIn. Anyone you know in common?

3. If yes, ask for a warm intro. If not, send a message like:

   “Hi [Name], I saw you’re on the [Association] board. I’ll be attending the conference and would love to learn more about your experience and any tips for getting the most out of it.”

Even a short message shows initiative and gives you a conversation starter once you're in the room.

Just like any other skill, networking takes practice, if you want to do it well. Join Articulated Intelligence Coaches the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 11am on Zoom for 30-minutes of Networking Practice Drills.  You invest the time and we'll take care of the rest.

Sign Up For Networking Practice Drills

Our next Networking Practice Lab is Feb 5 & 6, 2026. Develop intentional networking practices to maximize your results and your time.

See You On the Practice Field,

Alyce, Keith, and Renee ~ The Articulated Intelligence Team

At Articulated Intelligence we provide professional development practice labs, staff training, and leadership retreats in the areas of networking, impactful presentations, and leveraging stories in professional settings to build relationships, lead teams with authenticity and confidence, and close more business.