Networking events can be a great way to meet new people in your industry. But what is the goal of a networking event? Is it to make new contacts, or to strengthen relationships with existing ones? The answer may surprise you. In most cases, the goal of a networking event is actually to strengthen relationships with existing contacts. This makes sense, because it’s much easier to build a relationship with someone you’ve already met than it is to build one with a complete stranger.

Of course, networking events can also be a great way to meet new contacts. But if your goal is simply to meet as many new people as possible, you might be better off attending a different type of event, such as a trade show or conference. At a networking event, the focus is on building relationships with the people you already know.

A successful business relationship is built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect. However, the nature of the relationship can change over time, depending on the needs of both parties. In the early stages of a relationship, visibility is key and networking events are a great way to build on your personal brand and visibility.

The goal is to make a good impression and to establish credibility. The focus is on building rapport and developing a rapport. As the relationship matures, visibility may become less important, and profitability may become the primary focus. At this stage, both parties are focused on achieving their objectives and maximizing their return on investment. Ultimately, the success of any business relationship depends on the ability of both parties to adapt to changing circumstances and to work together towards common goals.

So next time you’re thinking about attending a networking event, ask yourself what your goals are. If you’re looking to make new contacts, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re looking to strengthen relationships with existing contacts, then networking events can be a great way to do that.