I’ll admit it: I used to cringe at the thought of “networking events.” I can be a bit of an awkward turtle in some situations, with a propensity to blush and fumble my words. This was certainly the case up until a few years ago.
The buzz of unfamiliar faces, the pressure to “work the room” felt more like speed dating than strategic leadership.
But along the way, I discovered a simple shift in mindset (and one powerful tool) that transformed every handshake into a high value connection, and it can do the same for you.
Last month, at a Brighton leadership summit, I decided to treat the day’s networking breakouts as mini exploration sessions. Instead of generic small talk, I arrived armed with:
- A stack of business cards with dynamic QR codes
- A clear decision about which of my expert methods I’d spotlight
- A warm, conversational opener that invited peers into real discussion
The result? Two casual coffee chats turned into confirmed coaching engagements before lunch.
Watch my latest YouTube video where I break this down
Here’s how I did it, and how you can too.
1. Turn Your Business Card into a Leadership Command Centre
Think of your card as the gateway to your signature insights. With a dynamic QR code, you tailor the landing page to your audience in real time. At Brighton, I highlighted my AIR system (Authority, Impact & Reach) on the page for consultants and coaches. One scan delivered:
- A concise two-page infographic of the AIR framework
- A brief self-assessment so prospects could pinpoint their biggest growth area
- A direct booking link for follow-up conversations
Instead of “Here’s my card, email me,” I said, “Scan this for some resources that will help” and was able to take the conversation deeper.
2. Lead Conversations with Precision and Warmth
Great leaders don’t wing their networking, they prepare! By choosing my expert method in advance, I was able to gently and naturally steer the conversation into the areas of the three key pillars. Which turned polite chit-chat into a purposeful strategy conversation.
3. Bundle Your Best Collateral into One Streamlined Experience
Leaders value clarity. Behind my QR code lived everything they’d need to make a decision:
- My free AIR assessment lead magnet and action plan
- A relevant YouTube video and podcast episode
- An offer completely in line with the audience’s needs
This all-in-one toolkit ensured every connection ended with clear next steps and the momentum to act, and stay connected.
Your Next Networking Event Doesn’t Have to Be a Guessing Game.
If you’re ready to stop “working the room” and start leading it, join my Expert Method Intensive.
In two hours we’ll:
- Pinpoint the unique framework that positions you as the go-to authority
- Build your dynamic QR landing page for real-time customisation
- Create the design brief for the collateral: infographics, assessments, guides, that converts every conversation
Book your intensive here. I have limited spots in my summer offer series.
And if you have any questions? Just shoot me an email, hello@helenpackham.com I’ll be happy to answer them.
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