Networking at social events in Lagos is your fast-track to fresh opportunities, from new collaborations to insider tips on the city’s best scenes. To make the most of every “hi and hello”, start by finding out details of the event, then craft a concise personal pitch —nothing too wordy, keep it sweet and simple
At night, arrive early to get comfortable, show genuine interest and knowledge of who you’d wish to speak to, be relatable, and discuss casual topics to create conversations. Finally, follow up promptly with personalized messages to keep relationships alive long after the party ends.
Why Networking Matters in Lagos
Lagos is Nigeria’s economic engine, where deals often happen over drinks at rooftop lounges and pop-up art shows, making social events a great place for career and business growth. In a city where “who you know” can open doors, building a solid network helps you stay ahead of trends—whether you’re in tech, fashion, or the arts.
Before the Event: Preparation
- Research and Set Goals
Familiarise yourself with the event’s agenda, key speakers, and likely attendees so you can target the right people and sessions. As Forbes advises, make a list of 3–5 “must-meet” individuals, follow them on social media beforehand, and note recent achievements you can mention in conversation.
- Prepare Your Pitch and Materials
In this city, first impressions are vital. So be prepared and find innovative and creative ways to quickly state your business —who you are, what you do, and why you’re at the event
Have a business card or a digital contact card ready via WhatsApp or LinkedIn QR to exchange details smoothly.
At the Event: Engage with Confidence
- Arrive Early and Scope the Room
Getting there early lets you settle in, identify talk groups, and avoid the overcrowded areas —my advice is especially for introverts
Coming early also signals enthusiasm to hosts and gives you first pick of the best networking spots, like near the bar or main stage.
- Master First Impressions
A genuine smile, firm handshake, and good eye contact set the tone—these small gestures show confidence and respect in Nigerian settings. Share a brief personal story to stand out, and listen actively when others speak to build a bond.
- Conversation Starters and Body Language
Ask open-ended questions —-like “What brought you to this event tonight?” —- and mirror body language subtly to keep the conversation going. Maintain an interested posture, nod, and use affirming sounds (“mm-hmm,” “I see”) to show you value their perspective.
After the Event? Follow-Up
Send a personalized WhatsApp or LinkedIn message within 24–48 hours, referencing a specific detail from your chat to jog their memory. Express appreciation for their time, suggest the next step could be coffee or a collaborative idea, and attach any promised resources or articles. Keeping it simple and action-oriented increases the chance of a reply.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t dominate conversations with self-promotion—focus on listening and offering help first to build a connection. Avoid collecting business cards without context; always jot down a note on the back of the cards or your phone about what you discussed— trust me! It’ll go a long way. Finally, don’t delay follow-up contacts grow cold after 48 hours, so strike while the connection is warm.
Conclusion
Networking in Lagos is a strategy of genuine personal engagement. By preparing thoughtfully, mastering how to make a good first impression, and following up promptly, you’ll transform fleeting introductions into valuable, lasting relationships. Now, grab that next invite, step into the room early, that new connection is waiting.
