Quick Tip: Have a Networking Bag

Quick Tip: Have a Small Bag for Networking Events

If you are attending a networking event whether it is a breakfast meeting, a lunch or evening event, it is important to be able to move around freely and engage properly. You want to be able to mingle at a mingling event.

If an event is at the beginning or end of the day sometimes it can feel like you are hauling the kitchen sink with you as handbags get bigger. If you also work from home (or do agile working) you might also be carrying around with you papers and a laptop and so might even have a rucksack.

Therefore if you are attending a mingling event it is important to consider what you need to take with you and whether you can use a smaller bag or even better have none.

I often opt to use a cross body bag, therefore I can carry the essentials, but it is out of the way and I can use my hands freely (to juggle food, drink, business cards and whatever else) without balancing my bag at the same time. You also don’t have to worry about dumping your bag somewhere and keeping a watchful eye on it (which just makes you seem distracted by the way and gives off a bad impression).

I try to plan ahead so I know what I am taking where. Even for a middle of the day event, I often have a small bag I can take out and about (and leave my normal bag in the office).

Consider the type of event you are attending and the venue (if you are familiar with it) to decide whether you may need to pack light (if it is not possible to do it all the time).

If you do need a bigger bag, consider taking two – one that you can put in a safe place and one that you have on your person.

Do you use a different bag for attending networking events? Or what do you do? Share your tips in the comments.