You and your business and what a great job you can do for them, don't talk about as that comes later. To listen - ask some open questions and get them to talk about themselves is one of the best things you can do at a networking event. What are their challenges, what keeps them awake at night, find out about them ? At the moment, how are things going for them? Anything but business, you can even talk about. Weather is always a great topic of discussion. Get to know them as a person, holidays, hobbies, interests. After all - with people they know, like and trust, people do business.
Really crucial in a networking event is get out of your comfort zone. To stick with the people you know rather than talk to the complete strangers, there is a temptation when you go to a networking meeting. It's not as intimidating, you can catch up, you feel more comfortable. To at least 5-6 new people you do not already know, aim to talk. As most of the meetings are a couple of hours long, this isn't too difficult. Yes, with people you know, it's great to catch up and reconnect but balance this with meeting new people.
For Further Detail about networking and business network please visit the website. http://www.bbcnetworking.com