Feeling nervous before a networking event is more common than you might think. Even people who seem completely at ease now will tell you they felt exactly the same when they started. The good news is, those nerves don't last forever, and with the right mindset and a few practical tips, you can actually look forward to networking.

At Synergy Networking, we design our events to be welcoming, relaxed, and easy to navigate, especially for newcomers. Here's how to turn those butterflies into confidence.

Why Do We Get Nervous About Networking?

Nerves often come from the unknown: not knowing who will be there, what you'll say, or how the event will run. Sometimes it's the fear of walking into a room full of strangers, or feeling like you need to "perform" to fit in.

The truth is, most people in the room have felt exactly the same way. Everyone remembers their first time, and the best networking groups, like Synergy, make it easy to settle in.

Before the Event: Preparing Without Overthinking

A little preparation can make a big difference without piling on extra pressure.

• Check the Synergy Networking events page to see where your nearest meeting is and book your place.
• Have a short, friendly introduction ready: your name, your business, and a line about who you help.
• Set one simple goal, like talking to three new people or swapping contact details with someone in your industry.

You don't need a slick sales pitch. In fact, the more natural you sound, the better the conversation will flow.  Getting to know the people in the room is the best selling technique. 

Walking Into the Room: Easing First Impressions

Arriving a few minutes early gives you a chance to get comfortable before the room fills up. At Synergy, our host Linda Cloke and the team are always on hand to welcome you, introduce you to others, and explain how the evening works.

One of the ways we make it easier to connect is with colour-coded lanyards:

• Blue for members
• Green for staff
• Grey for visitors

This simple system helps you quickly spot who you can ask for help, and who's also new to the group.

Remember, everyone in the room is there for the same reason: to connect.

What to Say (and What to Avoid)

You don't need to launch straight into a pitch. Start by asking simple questions like:

• "What do you do?"
• "Have you been to this group before?"
• "What do you enjoy most about networking?"

Avoid going straight into a hard sell. Networking is about building relationships first, the business often comes later.  The open networking at the beginning of the event whilst the food is served is an easy place to do this and no one is left to stand alone.

During the Event: Finding Your Flow

Joining an ongoing conversation is often easier than starting from scratch. At Synergy, our pre-planned table moves make sure you meet plenty of new people without having to "work the room" alone.

Focus on listening as much as speaking – people remember how you made them feel, not just what you said. And don't be afraid to let your personality show; being genuine is far more memorable than being perfect.

Synergy also have the unique table questions, if you get stuck you can use these to answer to help you flow and get to know everyone on the table better.

After the Event: Turning Nerves Into Confidence

The real magic of networking often happens after the event. Follow up with one or two people you enjoyed speaking with – send a quick LinkedIn message or arrange a coffee.

Then give yourself credit. You showed up, you took part, and you built connections. Confidence comes with consistency, so book your next event while the momentum is there.

How Synergy Makes Networking Less Nerve-Wracking

We know not everyone enjoys weekly meetings, that's why Synergy events are monthly. This gives you time to follow up, reflect, and come back feeling ready.

We also make presentations easier. Instead of a rushed 60-second pitch, you'll have up to three minutes, with gentle questions from the table to help you fill the time naturally.

Other ways we make networking simple:

• Colour-coded lanyards so you instantly know who's who
• A friendly, structured format that avoids awkward gaps
• A warm welcome for every newcomer
• Free netwalking sessions for a no-pressure introduction to the group

Conclusion

If you're feeling nervous about networking, remember this, everyone starts somewhere, and every friendly connection you make will make it easier next time.

Synergy is here to take the pressure off. From the moment you arrive, you'll be guided, supported, and introduced to people who genuinely want to connect.

Find your nearest event below and book your place today. We can't wait to welcome you into the room.