How to avoid this

1. Arrive early

“Ease yourself into the event”, advises Joe Giordano. If you’re one of the first to turn up you can talk to other early arrivers. You’ll establish a few contacts in the room and get warmed up.

2. Approach odd numbered groups

They are easier to break into because there are more likely to be stragglers who are less involved in the conversation and easier to engage with. “Thrust out your hand and say ‘Hi, I’m Joe Giordano’,” advises our expert (or use your own name). Then get involved in the discussion – remember, most people in the room are there to meet other people, too.

3. Never talk work

Giordano reckons immediately harping on about work is a conversational turn-off. Instead, talk about “current affairs, interest rates, rugby, cricket, knitting patterns, etc”.

He adds, “let your guest talk. Listen, be attentive. Gather information about them and find out what really interests them.” And remember to ask questions.

4. Broker

Introduce your new contact to other guests you may know. “They will always remember your introduction to a third party,” says Giordano. Conversely, use them to introduce yourself to other people they know.

5. Badge up

Giordano advises wearing your name badge on the right lapel so when you shake hands it remains unobscured. And, of course, always wear one when they are being offered.

6. Play your cards right

Your own business cards should be in one pocket and those you receive in another. “You are there to make an impression. Fumbling for cards does not create the right impression.”

7. Don’t get drunk

Drink in moderation, he says. This means declining top-ups and possibly alternating between alcoholic and soft drinks. To get this right, you need to know your limits. Also note that if your host is getting drunk it doesn’t mean you should. “If all else fails and you start slurring your words – leave!”

8. Set targets

“Set yourself a target number of people to meet, say 10 cards in two hours,” says Giordano. “After five minutes move on. You are there to network. Say ‘so nice to meet you, I will be in touch, must circulate’. If you stay longer you could start to gibber and outstay your welcome.”

9. Be different

“When asked what you do, say ‘I save people money’ alternatively my friend is a business development manager for a fit-out contractor and she describes herself as ‘a hairy-arsed builder’.”

10. Follow up

When you’re back in the office, put all business card details on a database. Send the people you’ve met an email in the next day or so and arrange to meet for a drink or lunch, or invite them to a function. Use these tips and watch the new contracts roll in.