Back to Basics: How to Network Successfully

APSCo events bring together some of the most influential professionals across the recruitment sector - from established business leaders to emerging voices shaping the future of the sector. They offer a unique opportunity to share insight, build relationships, and unlock new opportunities.

But successful networking doesn’t happen by chance. It requires preparation, intent, and a focus on building genuine connections.

Here’s how to make the most of every conversation at your next APSCo event:

1. Set clear objectives before you arrive  

The most effective networkers don’t leave outcomes to chance. Before attending, take the time to define what success looks like for you.

Are you hoping to build new client relationships? Strengthen your peer network? Gain market insight? Or raise your profile within the APSCo community? Having clear objectives will help you prioritise your time, guide your conversations, and ensure you leave the event with tangible value.

"The people who get the most from APSCo events are those who plan ahead - knowing who they want to meet and what they want to achieve.” Joanna Rice, Trusted Partner Success Manager

2. Refine your introduction

In a busy event environment, clarity and confidence matter. Be ready to introduce yourself in a way that is concise, engaging, and tailored to your audience.

Focus on:

• Who you are
• What you do
• The value or perspective you bring
  

Avoid overly sales-driven language. Instead, aim to spark interest and open the door to further conversation.

3. Focus on relationships, not transactions

While events can generate business opportunities, the most valuable outcomes often come from long-term relationship building.

Approach conversations with curiosity rather than an immediate agenda. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and look for ways to add value to others.

Strong professional relationships built over time are far more impactful than transactional exchanges.

“The real value of networking is rarely immediate. APSCo events are not only about quick wins — they’re about building trusted, long-term connections across the sector.” Nikki Fisher, Trusted Partner Success Manager

4. Be visible and approachable

It’s easy to gravitate towards familiar faces, but the real value of APSCo events lies in expanding your network.

Make a conscious effort to:

• Introduce yourself to new people
• Join group discussions
• Participate in breakout sessions or informal networking moments
  
  

Simple behaviours — such as open body language, eye contact, and a willingness to engage — can make a significant difference.

Also, we recommend making a conscious effort to:

• Introduce yourself to new people.
• Engage in the networking – avoid staying with colleagues or familiar faces for the whole event.
• Join different conversations and keep circulating.
• Participate in breakout sessions and informal networking moments.

5. Ask better questions

Great networking is driven by great conversations. Moving beyond surface-level questions will help you build more meaningful connections.

Consider asking:

• “What challenges are you currently seeing in your market?”
• “What trends are having the biggest impact on your clients or candidates?”
• “What are you focusing on over the next 12 months?”
  

These types of questions demonstrate understanding of the sector and create more valuable dialogue.

Don’t forget the human side too – sometimes a simple chat about what’s going on in the news or life outside work can build just as much connection. 

 

“One of the biggest benefits of APSCo events is the opportunity to have meaningful discussions about market trends and challenges with peers.” Moya Rylands, Commercial Director

6.  Follow up promptly and personally

Networking doesn’t end when the event finishes — it’s just the beginning.

Within 24–48 hours:

• Send a personalised LinkedIn connection request
• Reference your conversation
• Suggest a follow-up where appropriate
  

Timely, thoughtful follow-up is often what turns a brief introduction into a lasting professional relationship.

“It’s not just who you meet — it’s the follow up you do afterwards that determines the success of your engagement.” Mike Dempsey, Sales Manager

7. Stay engaged with the APSCo community

APSCo events are part of a wider ecosystem designed to support collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional growth. Use your event connections as a springboard to:

• Engage with APSCo content on LinkedIn to raise your profile further

• Attend future sessions to reinforce relationships

• Stay connected with market updates and insights 

8. Be authentic

Above all, successful networking is grounded in authenticity. You don’t need a script — just a genuine interest in people and the sector. Be yourself, be curious, and be open to learning from others. That’s what creates conversations worth continuing beyond the event.

Final thoughts

APSCo events offer more than just an opportunity to meet new people — they provide a platform to strengthen the recruitment community as a whole. By approaching each event with preparation, purpose, and authenticity, you can turn conversations into meaningful, long-term relationships.

 At APSCo, we believe strong communities shape stronger businesses, and bringing the recruitment community together is fundamental to our role in the sector. Our events are designed to connect people, encouraging an open exchange of ideas, creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange, and fostering the kind of relationships that support long-term success across the recruitment sector.

Samantha Hurley, MD, APSCo UK

Take a look at our upcoming events to discover opportunities to expand your network, gain fresh insights, and connect with the people shaping the future of recruitment.