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After the great success of the speed networking segment at ArabNet Beirut 2014, we decided to feature it again at the upcoming ArabNet Digital Summit in Dubai , taking place on June 3-5 at Atlantis, The Palm. For those unfamiliar, speed networking is a concept derived from speed dating which involves talking to a lot of people in very short, back-to-back meetings that last no more than a few minutes. The goal is to touch base with as many businesses, customers, partners, or suppliers as possible. It is the ultimate platform for networking and an excellent ice breaker. 

Here's a list of tips that can help you make the most of the speed networking activity next week:

1. Come early

ArabNet's speed networking is organized on a first-come, first-served basis. Since the seats are limited, make sure to arrive at the hall 15 minutes earlier to reserve your seat.

2. Be ready for an elevator pitch

Have a concise and quick summary to clearly explain what you do, with key elements that make you or your business stand out, and your plans for the future. Practice articulating this to your friends and family, or even while driving or in front of the mirror. 

3. Bring lots of business cards

While this might sound obvious, most people at networking events find themselves short of business cards. Speed networking might put you in front of more than 50 people, not to mention the tens of other people you'll meet on the other days of the conference. Keep that in mind while you pack your things in preparation for the Summit. 

4. Keep a bottle of water with you at all times

Talking fast for an hour will dry up your mouth after the first 15 to 20 minutes. Have coffee or tea or juice before you get started, and keep a bottle of water with you so you keep hydrated and refreshed. It’s better to focus on what you’re talking about, instead of focusing on when you’ll be able to quench your thirst. 

5. Have your questions ready 

Before you attend the Summit, or any other conference or event for that matter, you must have a set of questions ready. Prepare the questions in a way that they help you carry out a business goal. Use the questions as guidelines, and be flexible about what you ask and how you ask them.

6. Be Vigilant

Remember that you have a small amount of time to connect with the person in front of you before you move on to the next person. Keep your energy level high, but make sure to watch the person’s energy in front of you so you won’t come off as too eager. Most importantly: speak clearly and concisely.

7. Don't go by the book

Sometimes, you might find the questions you prepared not matching the person sitting in front of you. Instead of letting the precious minutes go by awkwardly and silently, be ready to improvise. You might ask a random question about the event, or you might ask about who the other person thinks is interesting to talk to. You never know, the answers might prove to be valuable! 

8. Shake hands and thank the person you just met

While you might be in a rush to shift your seat (in case your side is the one shifting) when the timer rings, don't forget to show the person in front you that you appreciated talking to him/her. Shake hands firmly, and say "Thank you" loud and clear. Ending a conversation is as important as starting it.

9. Follow up with your new connections

When you're back home or to your hotel room after a long day of networking, don't give in to the urge to rest. Send out short, personalized emails to all the people you've met while it's still fresh. And if reciprocated, continue investing in the relationship in the future.