The One Networking Secret Everyone Overlooks

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Ever notice how some people walk into a room and leave with impactful connections, insights, and opportunities while the rest fade into the background?

It’s not luck.

It’s because they show up differently — not just to get something, but to give something.

Here’s the thing most people don’t realize: you don’t have to be the keynote speaker or the industry heavyweight to make an impact at an event.

Sometimes, the biggest power move is volunteering to hand out name tags or troubleshoot a presentation glitch. Sounds simple? Maybe. But that’s where the magic happens — in stepping up, standing out, and becoming the person people remember long after the event ends.

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Where did I start? It was for the Society of American Military Engineers here in Washington, DC. It started small, helping at events, registrations, clean up post events, you name it. Whatever I could do.

From there, hosted networking events, conferences, built relationships with industry and government leaders, and so on. It helped me develop relationship-building skills, allowed me to connect my colleagues with potential teaming partners, give back to the profession, learn from subject matter experts, and hear about where the industries we operate in.

I’ve been working on monthly (both digital and in-person) events that require me to volunteer. There is a lot that goes on in the background to pull events off, and there is a team, but there is always an opportunity for (new) volunteers too.

Many associations will look for volunteers, so dip your toes into it. It’s a great way to build relationships.

Let’s dance.

First Touch - Show Up & Ask. Say Yes!

Most people attend events for surface-level reasons: networking, learning something new, or maybe getting out of the office for a change of scenery. But they leave without making any real impact — easily forgotten the moment the event ends.

Volunteering flips that script. Suddenly, you’re not just another attendee in a sea of suits. You’re the person who made things happen. People remember the one who made their experience smoother, solved problems, or simply made them feel welcome.

That’s gold in a world where everyone’s vying for attention.

Here’s the secret most people overlook: events are chaotic. Deadlines loom. Speakers run late. Attendees get confused. When you step in and help, you instantly become a valuable player.

And in business, being valuable opens doors — to conversations, opportunities, and relationships that could otherwise take years to build.

It’s not just about your goodwill. It’s a strategic move that positions you as a leader without ever needing to say it out loud. Leaders are defined by action, not titles. Volunteering lets you show your leadership chops in an authentic, impactful way.

Second Touch - Turn Up the Volume on Value

Start by saying "Yes" the next time an event needs volunteers. Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity — the act of showing up and stepping in is what counts. Here are a few ways you can make yourself indispensable:

1. Registration Desk: Everyone has to check-in. That means you meet every single attendee, including industry heavyweights, keynote speakers, and decision-makers. Smile, stand tall and shake their hands, introduce yourself, and thank them for being here. I always like to be here.

2. Tech Setup: Got a knack for tech? Be the hero who ensures the presentation runs without a hitch. When you save someone’s talk from a technical disaster, they won’t forget you.

3. Event Flow Management: Helping attendees find the right sessions or navigating logistics positions you as a trusted problem-solver.

4. Speaker Assistance: Coordinating with speakers makes you a critical point of contact. Speakers often have influence and connections — build those relationships by making their lives easier. Don’t think of this as menial work. Think of it as front-row access to people and conversations that matter. Plus, people naturally open up to the person helping them. That’s prime time for authentic connections.

Third Touch - Why Do This?

Volunteering isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s a game-changer for your personal brand, your company’s brand, and your commitment to your respected niche. Here’s why it works:

1. Visibility: People notice who’s working behind the scenes to make things better. When you’re visible, you’re top of mind for future opportunities.

2. Trust Building: Volunteering signals that you’re someone who cares about the bigger picture, not just your own agenda. That builds trust — and trust is the foundation of any successful business relationship.

3. Access to Influencers: Organizers, speakers, and high-level attendees tend to gravitate toward those who are making things run smoothly. These are the people who can open doors for you in your career.

4. Skill Development: Events are dynamic environments that require quick thinking, communication, and problem-solving. These are transferable skills that enhance your leadership capabilities.

Let me share a real example: I once knew a sales executive who volunteered at a major industry conference by simply managing the coffee station. Sounds trivial, right? But by doing so, he met dozens of high-profile executives, struck up conversations, and walked away with multiple new business deals. All because he showed up and helped.

Pack Some Additional Punch

Here are a few tips to really hit it out of the park when reaching out.

1. Say yes. If there is an event coming up that you want to go to, email the programs or events chair and ask if there is something you can do.

2. Never assume things are all handled. Ask. Trust starts with small tasks first. You might be capable of larger things, but build that over time.

3. Huge events usually have dedicated paid staff. However, there are always events surrounding the main event, see if there are any you might be able to work with

4. You never know…until you ask. So do it. What are going to say…No?

5. I always recommend that every Business Development exec/Vice President is volunteering at a Trade Association in their respective niche and should be part of their job description. Never assume that they will do it, build it into their job requirements

Your Next Move

Find an upcoming event in your industry. Reach out to the organizers with a simple message:

"Hey, I’d love to support the event. How can I help?"

Then show up, contribute, and make yourself indispensable. The connections you build and the reputation you earn will be worth far more than the effort you put in.

What the Internet Taught Me This Week

From new tools, recent trends, and market updates, here is what has been on my mind.

1. AI Chatbots Found Distorting News Stories

2. There is a rise of AI-Financial Advisors

3. Google has rolled out new features for its NotebookLM

At the end of the day, business isn’t just about transactions — it’s about relationships. And relationships are built on action, not talk. Volunteering at industry events is one of the most underrated, high-impact ways to show people what you’re made of.

It signals that you’re more than just someone looking for a deal — you’re someone willing to roll up your sleeves and contribute. That’s memorable.

So the next time you’re at an event, don’t just think about business. Think about building relationships. Think about being the person people remember long after the event ends.

Maybe you can’t do it at scale, but it sure is quality over quantity.

See you next week.

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