Networking is the backbone of success in freight forwarding. Conferences provide a golden opportunity to build relationships, expand your network, and discover new business opportunities. However, even seasoned freight forwarders can fall into some common networking traps that may hinder their efforts. Avoiding these mistakes can make your conference experience more fruitful and impactful.
1. Skipping Pre-Conference Preparation
Failing to plan before attending a conference is a missed opportunity. Research the attendee list, understand the agenda, and identify sessions or people you want to connect with. Not preparing may leave you wandering aimlessly and missing key contacts.
Tip: Use the conference app or website to create a personalized plan and reach out to attendees you want to meet beforehand.
2. Focusing Only on Selling
Networking isn’t just about promoting your services or securing deals on the spot. Freight forwarding thrives on trust, and focusing solely on sales can deter meaningful conversations.
Tip: Approach networking with a mindset of building relationships, exchanging knowledge, and exploring mutual opportunities.
3. Ignoring Follow-Ups
One of the most significant mistakes is not following up after the event. Collecting business cards or connecting briefly doesn’t seal the deal; the real work happens post-conference.
Tip: Send personalized emails or messages within a few days, thanking your connections and discussing potential collaborations.
4. Talking More Than Listening
Conferences are full of seasoned professionals and potential partners, but dominating conversations can alienate them. Listening attentively shows respect and interest.
Tip: Use the 70/30 rule—listen 70% of the time and talk 30%. Ask questions about their challenges and experiences in freight forwarding.
5. Neglecting Non-Business Interactions
Networking doesn’t only happen during official sessions. Casual conversations over lunch, coffee breaks, or social gatherings often lead to the strongest connections.
Tip: Be approachable and open to connecting in informal settings. A shared laugh over dinner might be the start of a great partnership.
6. Being Overly Generic in Your Introduction
When someone asks about your business, a vague response like "We do freight forwarding" won’t make you memorable. Stand out by sharing a unique aspect of your services.
Tip: Develop a concise and engaging elevator pitch that highlights what makes your freight forwarding company unique.
7. Forgetting to Bring Business Essentials
Showing up without enough business cards, a charged phone, or access to company materials can make you appear unprepared.
Tip: Carry extra business cards, a power bank, and a digital presentation or portfolio on your phone or tablet.
8. Sticking to Your Comfort Zone
It’s tempting to stick with familiar faces, especially at large events. However, this limits your networking potential.
Tip: Challenge yourself to meet new people, even if it feels uncomfortable. Attend different sessions or sit at a table where you don’t know anyone.
9. Ignoring Cultural Differences
Freight forwarding conferences often attract attendees from around the globe. Ignoring cultural etiquette or failing to adapt can unintentionally offend someone.
Tip: Learn about cultural norms and practices of the people you plan to meet, ensuring respectful and meaningful interactions.
10. Overloading Your Schedule
Trying to attend every session and meet everyone can leave you overwhelmed and less productive.
Tip: Prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on meaningful conversations with a few key contacts instead of brief interactions with many.
Why Avoiding Freight Forwarding Networking Mistakes Matters
Freight forwarding is a relationship-driven industry, and networking is your gateway to global opportunities. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can leave a lasting impression, foster strong partnerships, and grow your business effectively.
Networking at freight forwarding conferences isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about building trust, sharing insights, and creating mutually beneficial relationships. Prepare, be authentic, and follow up consistently to make your networking efforts count.
Are you ready to elevate your networking game? Join the 24th FNC International Freight Forwarders Conference in Bangkok this June and connect with freight forwarders worldwide!
Want to expand your global reach, find reliable partners, or gain exclusive access to industry events? Join our FNC Americas network today!
Comments