How to Network at Tech Events Without Feeling Awkward

To network at a tech event without feeling awkward, go in with a short list of people to meet, ask questions before you talk about yourself, and describe your work in one sentence. Then follow up within 48 hours with something specific from each conversation. Plan that follow-up before you arrive.

I co-founded Hackhouse, a builders' hub in Nairobi that has organised more than 400 events. This guide answers common networking questions in the order you will need them: before, during and after an event.

Why does networking at events feel awkward?

Usually because we walk in thinking about what we need: funding, a job, an introduction. People sense it and keep their distance. It helps to walk in as a host, even when you are a guest. A host asks how someone's day is going, notices the person standing alone and makes introductions.

How should I prepare before a tech event?

1. Check who is coming. Read the speaker and partner lists, and look for attendee chatter in your online groups and on LinkedIn.
2. Pick three to five people you want to meet, with one reason each of them might want to meet you.
3. Book meetings in advance at large events, where the main hall gets crowded.
4. Write a one-sentence introduction that says who you serve and what changes for them. For example, "We help clinics in Nakuru run payroll in an afternoon" is clearer than a list of features.
5. Make your contact details quick to share, such as the QR code in your LinkedIn app or a saved WhatsApp message.

Preparation matters more as rooms get bigger. GITEX Africa in Marrakech, from 7 to 9 April 2026, expected more than 55,000 attendees and around 400 investors (Morocco World News). Closer to home, Africa Tech Summit Nairobi held its 8th edition in February 2026 (Kenya Investment Authority), and Moonshot by TechCabal ran in Lagos on 28 and 29 October 2026 (NextBillion).

What do I do in the first five minutes when I know no one?

Start with the people working the event: volunteers, registration staff and the team at a booth. They are easy to talk to and they know who is around. Then move to the edges of the room, where people stand alone or in pairs, and try a simple opener such as "Is this your first time here?" or "What brought you today?"

Let the other person talk for a minute before you mention your company. Ask what they are building and what is hard about it this month.

How do I approach a speaker or an investor?

Speakers often leave the stage surrounded by people who want something. Say one specific thing about their talk, ask one question and then let them go. A line such as "Your point about sandboxes changed how we are thinking about our Uganda launch" gives them something to respond to.

With investors, ask what they are looking for before you pitch. If your company fits, ask whether you can send a short note. If it does not fit, you have still made a good first impression with someone you may meet again at the next event.

How should I follow up after the event?

Within 48 hours, send a short message that reminds them where you met, refers to one thing they said and offers something useful, such as an article or an introduction. Save bigger asks for later, once you have given something first.

Before you leave the venue, record a short voice note or text about each person you met. Notes made on the day are far easier to act on later in the week.

How do I network as an introvert?

Set a target, such as three good conversations, and go home when you reach it. Workshops, small panels and dinners suit people who prefer depth to crowds. Step outside between sessions to rest, or sit one out. A smaller local event, such as a Hackhouse community night, is a good place to practise before a large conference.

What is the most useful habit at any event?

Connect other people. When you hear someone's problem and know who has solved it, introduce them on the spot or by message that evening. People remember who helped them, and the introductions you make often bring you introductions in return.

If you are pitching on stage, read our guide to giving a great Demo Day presentation. Our next one, the Cohort 4 Demo Day, is on Tuesday 17 November 2026 at 5pm. For staying visible online between events, see how to build a personal brand as a founder.

Key facts

• Pick three to five people to meet before you arrive.
• Describe your company in one sentence: who you serve and what changes for them.
• Follow up within 48 hours with a specific reference to your conversation.
• GITEX Africa 2026 expected more than 55,000 attendees and around 400 investors.
• Moonshot by TechCabal 2026 ran on 28 and 29 October at the National Theatre, Lagos.
• Hackhouse Cohort 4 Demo Day is on Tuesday 17 November 2026 at 5pm.

Frequently asked questions

What should I say when I meet someone at a tech event?

Open with a simple question such as "What brought you here today?" and let them talk. When they ask about you, give one sentence on who you serve and what changes for them.

How do I follow up after a networking event?

Send a short message within 48 hours. Remind them where you met, mention one thing they said and offer something useful. Keep any request small.

Should I bring business cards to tech events in Kenya?

A few cards are handy, and many people now swap contacts on the phone through LinkedIn or WhatsApp. Have a digital option ready so you can share your details in seconds.

How do I network at an event as an introvert?

Set a small target, such as three good conversations, and choose workshops or dinners over the main hall. Take breaks and leave when you hit your target.

Sources

• GITEX Africa 2026 kicks off in Marrakech with over 1,450 exhibitors from 145 countries, Morocco World News, checked 5 Nov 2026
• Africa Tech Summit, Kenya Investment Authority, checked 5 Nov 2026
• Moonshot by TechCabal 2026, NextBillion, checked 5 Nov 2026

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