As the founder of a monthly meetup for women and non-binary entrepreneurs in South London, I know how networking events can feel. Somewhere between exciting and terrifying. One minute you’re buzzing with ideas, the next you’re hiding in the loo wondering why you came. Been there! It might surprise you to learn that although I’m the enthusiastic host of our Pints and Purpose events, I too have had to figure my way through too many networking events whilst wondering why I bothered. In this blog I lay out some of my gentle tips I swear by so you know how to make the most of a networking event without the ick!

1. Set Your Intentions

Before you arrive, ask yourself: what do I want to get out of this? Are you hoping to make one solid connection? Find a new client? Just have a nice chat with people who “get it”? Having a loose goal helps take the pressure off and gives you something to anchor to if you start feeling a bit wobbly.

2. Pack the Essentials

Business cards or printed materials might seem a bit retro, but they’re handy (especially if your phone’s on 3%) so don’t be shy about bringing them to a Pints & Purpose meetup. I always bring a power pack to keep my phone alive—nothing worse than trying to follow someone on Instagram and watching your battery blink out mid-search.

3. Take Photos or Videos

Take a few selfies, grab a pic of the room, film a little behind-the-scenes snippet to post on your socials. Not only does it help you remember the evening, but it gives you an easy way to stay in touch with people afterwards. Plus, it’s lovely promo if you’re keen to shout about the event! Speaking of which, make sure you’re following us on Instagram and tag us!

4. Ask Questions

You don’t need a perfect elevator pitch. Just ask things like “What do you do?” or “How did you hear about this?” People usually light up when you show genuine interest. You never know where one question might lead. At Pints and Purpose we provide conversation starter cards to help get you started, and you’ll soon see where the conversation takes you!

5. Let yourself enjoy it

This isn’t Dragons’ Den. You don’t have to be the loudest in the room. If it gets overwhelming, step outside, have a breather, then come back in when you’re ready. You’re allowed to take up space on your own terms.

So there you have it, my tips on how to make the most of a networking event without the ick! I hope you found them helpful. If you’re local to south east London nd this sounds like your kind of vibe, I’d love to welcome you to one of our meetups. They are warm, welcoming, and full of brilliant humans just like you. We meet monthly in a cosy pub—no pressure, no cliques, just good chats and new connections. We’re always friends first, pitching second.

You can check out our upcoming dates here

Maddy x