Professional Networking Isn’t a Team Sport
Why Networking Alone Can Be Your Smartest Move Yet by Lizzi Richardson
Over the years, I’ve found that growing my collaborations and exploring opportunities for my creative content has often meant attending networking events in person. Online can only take you so far. And whether by choice or simply because no one was available to come with me, I’ve frequently had to show up on my own.
At first, going solo felt awkward - and, at times, a little intimidating. I may come across as an extrovert, but that’s often a shield I use to mask the quieter, more introverted side of me that I’ve learnt to push through when the situation calls for it.
Showing up alone was a challenge, but time and again, it proved to be one of the best decisions I could have made. It pushed me to engage more intentionally, forge stronger connections, and focus entirely on what I wanted to gain from each event.
So if you’ve ever hesitated to walk into a room without a plus-one, I’m here to say: it might just be the most powerful move you can make. Here’s why going solo can work for you, too.
It Encourages Genuine Connections With New People
Attending alone naturally pushes you to engage with people outside your usual circle. Without the fallback of familiar faces, you’re more open, present, and intentional - making space for real, authentic conversations.
It Clarifies the Value of the Event Itself
When you’re solo, you become more attuned to the content, energy, and audience of the event. It allows you to objectively assess: Is this worth my time? Without the distraction of socialising with friends or colleagues, plus it’s easier to judge whether it aligns with your the goals you’ve set for yourself.
You’re in Complete Control of Your Experience
Flying solo means full freedom - to stay as long (or short) as you like, to move through the room on your own terms, and to focus entirely on what you want to gain. There’s no need to coordinate or compromise with anyone else’s agenda.
Tips for Attending Your First Solo Networking Event with Confidence
Okay, so you’ve booked your space, you’ve made time in your diary and you feel ready to make some new connections - here’s a few planning tips ahead of the event that I’ve learnt to make it just that little easier to step into the room.
Do your research on event itself.
Take a look at google images or Social Media accounts of their previous events, here you will get a view on the ‘what to wear’ be it, Business, Business-Casual, Casual or sometimes, Evening glam!
Do your research on the host and any guest speakers
This is so important! Check out their last 5-7 social media posts and read any articles they have written in the last month - not only are these conversation starters, but you will find anyone you speak to, will know this information. Be in the know!
Will the event be supporting a charity?
I refer back to point 2 - do your research!
What do you want to get from attending this event?
New connections
Tell people about a new product or service
Broaden your industry knowledge
Just be out in a new environment
All of these are valuable reasons - here’s what I recommend for each:
New connections - Set a goal for yourself that you will speak to a minimum of three new people with the aim to understand why they are attending and what other networking events they love and would recommend to you.
Tell people about a new product or service - Validate who you are talking to and avoid getting stuck with the one person. Set a goal that you will speak to at least five people and after some casual introductions be bold and say, “I’m here to tell people about XYZ, are you interested to hear?” If they imply no, politely close the conversation and move on to the next person. You are there on a mission to tell and inform - and not necessarily to be the most popular person in the room, this is about finding customers or expanding distribution.
Broaden your industry knowledge - The goal here is to listen and be curious. Talk to people and ask them what exciting projects are they working on right now - people love sharing. Listen hard, find nuggets you can ask them more questions to deepen the conversation. Then ask them why they are at the event and if they reply with raising awareness of a new product or service, show them some interest. Then politely close the conversation simply by saying ‘I’ve made a promise to myself that I will meet three new people here, I’ve really enjoyed our conversation, good luck with XYZ and I will be sure to follow on socials to see how you progress’ and move on.
Just be out in a new environment - The goal here is simply to immerse yourself in a new environment without pressure. Relax, enjoy yourself, and move between your intentions - whether that’s making new connections, scoping out opportunities, or simply observing - with ease. If you’re enjoying the event, stay and make the most of it. If not, you’ve got options: strike up a new conversation with someone else, consider leaving the event altogether, or do what I’ve done in the past - if you bump into someone you know, suggest grabbing a drink and having a proper catch-up elsewhere.
You’ll never regret going to an event, each one helps you grow, expands your knowledge and often builds your confidence. Research well, get advice from your mentor or close connections and be brave, set goals and just go.