How to Connect with Someone at An Event

You walk into a buzzing room — conversations flying, people laughing, business cards changing hands. But something feels off. It’s all a bit… transactional. What would you do differently?

Forget stiff networking scripts and small talk that goes nowhere. At any #HugDayEvent experience, the goal isn’t to “collect people.” It’s to connect for real.

Here’s how to do that genuinely, naturally, and with results.

1. Compliment with Precision

Generic compliments fall flat. Be observant so you can connect with precision.

Instead of, “Nice outfit,” try: “That Ankara design is bold. Does it have a story?”

It’s not flattery. It’s presence. Real attention builds real connection.

2. Don’t Ask, “What Do You Do?”

Ask, “What brings you here?” This one shift opens the door to purpose, not just profession. People will tell you what drives them, not just what pays them.

That’s your cue to go deeper.

3. Enter Groups with a Sense of Belonging

Find a small group. Listen briefly. Then chime in with something thoughtful.

You don’t need permission: just a respectful presence and a relevant comment.

Later, step aside with someone and say:

“I’d like to stay in touch. Can we exchange contacts?”

4. Offer to Take a Photo

People crave memories, but often leave without a good picture. Fill that gap.

Snap a great photo of them or with them. Then say: “I’ll send it to you — what’s your number or handle?”

You’ve just connected through service, not sales.

5. Lead with Value

If your first instinct is to pitch, pause! You don’t need an agenda, but value.

Try instead: “I know someone working on something similar. Should I connect you two?”

Offering value builds trust. And trust opens doors.

6. Own Your Intent

You don’t have to pretend you accidentally want their contact. Be upfront.

“I love your submission concerning business management. I’d like to stay connected with you. Are you on WhatsApp or LinkedIn?”

Authenticity is disarming.

7. Ask for Feedback

Whether you’re attending as a guest, speaker, or organiser, don’t just seek compliments.

Say: “Be honest — what stood out for you today?”

People love to share their opinions. And now you’ve got a reason to follow up later.

8. Share Something Mutual

Don’t just ask questions; offer a glimpse of yourself.

“I’ve been exploring emotional health in leadership lately. What’s your take?”

When you open up first, people feel safe to meet you halfway.

9. Respect the Exit

Connection doesn’t mean clinging. Know when to wrap up:

“Great chatting. Before I let you go, can we connect on Instagram?”

Confident exits show self-respect and leave a lasting impression.

10. Follow Up Within 24 Hours

The contact is only as good as your follow-up.

Don’t just send “Nice meeting you.” Say something like:
“I enjoyed our chat about creative business models. Here’s the book I mentioned.”

That’s how you turn a moment into momentum.

In Summary

In a world full of self-promotion, the rarest thing is someone who truly cares. Be that person.

At HugDayEvent, we don’t just network — we build community. Not to impress. To connect.

So, talk like a human. Ask like a friend. Follow up like you mean it.
The goal? To improve the quality of your life and help others achieve theirs.

Mutuality. Focus more on what you can give. That’s how real communities grow.