#MarketersBreakfast | Marketer Speed Dating Recap - The Secret to Networking

The Setup Marketer Speed Dating event is one of our personal favorite longstanding #MarketersBreakfast events  because of the ease and quality of the connections fostered. Established Atlanta Brands and our Agency partners come together to mix, mingle, and enjoy one another’s company in a fast-paced, pitch-free environment where forming a genuine connection is at the core of the interaction. 

We adore our attendees and are so proud of the culture we’ve built surrounding our events. Several attendees from this last event shared that they loved the format, there were quality connections, and general “good vibes.” Setup events are a place where people can truly meet others for who they are. If you are a Client-side marketer looking to make more authentic connections, contact us! We have events all year. 

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Optimize Events with Networking Secrets

As full-time connectors, we know that networking isn’t always effortless. Some people feel a bit hesitant to initiate conversations, while others dive in enthusiastically, eager to share their business cards and pitch their services. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, these networking tips will help ease the pressure and guide you toward building more meaningful, organic connections.

1. Go in With a Game Plan

Before stepping into a networking event, set clear objectives—whether it’s finding a potential Agency partner, exchanging insights with fellow marketing peers, or identifying a new tool or strategic solution. Understand the type of event you’re attending, and prioritize conversations that align with your business goals.

2. Lead With Value, Not Just a Pitch

Marketing leaders know that the best connections come from authentic conversations, not sales pitches. Instead of leading with what you do, focus on sharing a unique insight, a recent challenge, or a thought-provoking industry trend. Position yourself as a resource and thought leader, rather than just another name in their inbox. Additionally, conversing about lives outside of work can often lead to sparks and commonalities to explore. 

3. Master the Art of Strategic Small Talk

Skip the generic “So, what do you do?” and instead ask engaging, industry-specific questions that guide real discussions. Potential questions to dig in may be:

• What’s been your biggest marketing challenge this year?

• What’s the most surprising consumer trend you’ve seen lately?

• What’s one marketing trend you think is overhyped?

These questions turn surface-level chats into meaningful conversations that foster deeper connections related to marketing. The answers may also inspire you in your corner of the marketing world. You can also get even more personal with your questions to dig deeper and show that you’re engaged:

• What about your job brings you joy?

• Have you always wanted to pursue that industry? 

• If you could do anything besides what you currently do, what would you pursue?

4. Build Micro-Networks, Not Just a Contact List

Networking isn’t about collecting the most business cards—it’s about building strong, lasting relationships. After the event, follow up with a personalized LinkedIn message or email, referencing something specific from your conversation. Better yet, introduce two connections who could benefit from knowing each other—this builds goodwill and strengthens your credibility. At the end of the day, networking events aren’t always going to lead to immediate leads. They are all about planting the seeds. You may meet a future employer, employee, colleague, partner, reference, or (in the spirit of Valentine’s Day) spouse - anything is possible! Just always treat everyone you meet with respect and kindness, even if their title or company may not be what you are looking for right now. 

5. Make Yourself Memorable

With so many conversations happening, it’s easy to blur into the crowd. Stand out by sharing a compelling personal story or a bold industry prediction that sticks in people’s minds. Whether it’s an unexpected marketing insight or a unique career journey, leave an impression that makes people want to stay connected. Better yet, be the person that does less of the pitching, and actually engages. What would it look like if you spent less time talking about yourself, and asked the other person questions? Stay engaged. Stay interested. 

Our events are a great environment for Client-side marketers to put these tips into action. Instead of standing idly by at the next networking event, plant seeds and grow relationships that lead to prosperity and partnerships. 

One of the best things about our #MarketersBreakfast events is how they bring marketing leaders together—introducing professionals who might not have crossed paths otherwise, all at no cost to attendees. Even better, many of these connections turn into ongoing conversations long after the event. We truly love hosting events for Brands and Agencies and are continually inspired by the meaningful connections that spark along the way.

 If you are a Client-side Marketer in Atlanta and would like to join us at our next in person or virtual event, check out future event details here.