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How to Stand Out When Speaking at Networking Events

Darlene Hawley

Why your introduction isn’t landing (and how to make people actually listen)

When you're talking but no one's listening.

Have you ever introduced yourself at a networking event… only to feel like people’s eyes glazed over?

One of my clients put it perfectly:

“Darlene, I share who I am and what I do, but it feels like I’m invisible. People nod politely and then move on.”

She had so much value to offer. In fact, she is amazing at what she did. Yet, her introduction was all over the place. Some days she was talking to potential clients, other days to possible collaborators, and sometimes even she wasn’t sure what her main point was.

And that’s why it felt like no one was listening.

Why This Happens

It’s not because you’re not experienced enough.

It’s not because you’re not interesting enough.

It’s because without clarity about who your audience is in the room and what you really want to say, your voice gets lost in the shuffle of business cards and conversations.

Networking rooms are full of people competing for attention.

If your message doesn’t connect directly... if it doesn’t make them pause, lean in and say, “Tell me more” ... it disappears before they even leave the event.

The Shift

When this client and I worked together, the first thing we did was get crystal clear about:

Who she most wanted to reach in the room.

What those people actually cared about.

How her work specifically helped them.

Once she had that clarity, her introductions started sounding different... more direct, more alive, more her.

And the result?

People leaned in. Instead of walking away, they asked questions. They followed up after the event. They booked time with her.

Because when you find your voice and know exactly who you’re talking to, you stop being forgettable. You become someone people can’t ignore.

This is exactly what we’ll be diving into in Session 1 of my Attract & Stand Out Framework:

Getting clear on who your audience is.
Knowing what you want to say.
Communicating how you help in a way that truly connects... whether you’re introducing yourself in a room or on stage.

It’s not just about having the words, it’s about the confidence to say them out loud too... with presence, authority, and ease.

If you’ve been walking out of networking events feeling overlooked, let this be a gentle nudge:

~ You don’t need to try harder.

~ You don’t need to stuff more into your intro.

~ You need clarity... on your audience, your message, and your voice.

That’s where visibility begins. That’s how you go from overlooked to unforgettable.

Think about the last time you introduced yourself at a networking event. Could the right person in the room... your dream client or collaborator... hear you and say: “That’s me. She gets it”?

________________________________________________________

🌀 Nervous System Regulator: The 4-7-8 Reset

Feeling that anxious butterfly sensation before you introduce yourself? Try this right before you speak:

Inhale quietly through your nose for a count of 4.

Hold your breath for a count of 7.

Exhale slowly and fully through your mouth for a count of 8.

Repeat this 3–4 times. It only takes a minute, but it tells your nervous system: You’re safe. You’ve got this.

When your body is calm, your voice comes through with more presence and power... and people remember you.

✨ Ready to stop feeling overlooked at networking events? Download my free guide, 6 Steps to Attract & Stand Out, and discover how to clarify your message, show up with confidence, and connect with the people who matter most. Grab it here »

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✨Ready to Own Your Story and Attract Your Dream Clients?✨

If you’re ready to stop second-guessing your message and start using storytelling as a powerful tool to connect, inspire, and sell—then I’d love to invite you to my It’s Time to Own Your Story: Mini-Course.

In this self-paced course, you’ll learn how to:
✔️ Identify the key moments in your story that captivate your audience.
✔️ Share your story in a way that builds trust and positions you as the go-to expert.
✔️ Use storytelling across your website, social media, and sales conversations to attract and convert more clients.

Plus, you’ll get a step-by-step workbook and personal feedback on your brand story—so you can start sharing with confidence.

Get Instant Access for just $47

10 Effective Communication Tips

Darlene Hawley, Personal Branding & Business Coach for service based entrepreneurs

Hey There!

I'm Darlene

As a mother, wife, connector, and dream builder, I’m Darlene Hawley, the founder of DarleneHawley.com and an Executive Leadership & Businesss Coach dedicated to empowering leaders like you.

My passion lies in helping ambitious professionals cultivate their unique leadership style while crafting an authentic and impactful personal brand. Through my coaching, we’ll work together to build a solid foundation that not only inspires your team but also drives results and growth within your organization.

Since 2007, I have been committed to guiding leaders and entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their businesses with confidence and clarity.

Today, I focus on supporting women in reaching their leadership goals and living their dream lives—all while balancing the joys of raising my family and creating meaningful memories each day.

Together, we’ll transform your challenges into opportunities, allowing you to lead with authenticity and inspire those around you.

Who It’s For: Entrepreneurs, Senior Business Leaders, Managers, Sales Professionals, Female Leaders, and R&D, Innovation, DEI, and Other Critical Teams

How to Stand Out When Speaking at Networking Events

Why your introduction isn’t landing (and how to make people actually listen)

✨Ready to Own Your Story and Attract Your Dream Clients?✨

Hey There!

I'm Darlene

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