You're investing more time going to networking events, but you wonder if it's worth it. Sure it's interesting talking to people, but with your busy schedule, are you really making the most of your time? In order to get the most out of each networking event you need to plan your strategy. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a networking event:

Learn About the Event

Learn everything you need to know about the event itself. What type of event is it? Is it a sit-down meal or buffet? Will there be a speaker? Is it a trade show? How many people will be there? Will you introduce yourself to the whole audience, or will there be one-on-one introductions? How long is the event?

If this is your first time attending an event sponsored by an organization, learn more about the organization. Talk to a current member. What is the organization's mission? What is the profile of its members? What can you expect from this event?

Determine What You Want to Accomplish

Attend the event with a purpose in mind. Review your business or career goals and your needs. Keeping your goals in mind will help you gain the information and resources you need to accomplish them.

This event may be a good opportunity to stay visible. Do you want to make new contacts in your field, or do you want to reconnect with people you already know? By understanding your goals for attending the event, you'll be more likely to fulfill them.

Identify People You Want to Talk to or Meet

Think about people who are likely to attend the event and make a note of those who you'd like to talk to. Is there someone with whom you would like to reconnect with and build a relationship? Is there someone you would you like to meet? What types of people are in a position to help you achieve your goals?

Prepare and Rehearse Your Introduction

When you introduce yourself to others, you only have about seven seconds to grab people's attention and about 30 seconds to make a lasting impression. The biggest mistake you can make is to introduce yourself by your name, title and company's name. If you just give people data, they can't relate to or connect with you. Instead, use a phrase or tag line that captures people's attention, and share the value you bring to others.

Your introduction should include the following elements:

• Your name
• Your company's name, if you choose to use it
• What you do
• The value you bring to others

Always use your first name and last name. If your company is well-known, mention it, but otherwise you may want to skip it and focus on what you do. Always include the benefit of what you do. For example, instead of saying, "My name is Kathy, and I sell insurance," you might say, "I'm Kathy Smith, and I sell peace of mind knowing you are protected from the unexpected." Isn't that more attention-getting?

Identify What You Have to Offer

Networking is a two-way street: You receive help from others, and you offer others help. Many people underestimate the value they bring to others, but it's important to know yourself and what you have to offer and to realize that you can be a valuable resource. If you identify at the outset what you have to offer, you will be better prepared to build mutually supportive relationships with people you meet at networking events.

What do you have to offer? Do you have information, ideas, contacts or other resources? I, for example, am a member of National Speakers Association, a network of professional speakers. Many experienced speakers have helped me in my career. In return, I can offer contacts at Hewlett-Packard Company, where I have worked for 18 years, and where many speakers and trainers are eager to give presentations.

If you take these five steps to prepare for your next networking event, you will be much more likely to achieve your goals.