81: How to Walk Into a Networking Event Alone and Start Meaningful Conversations with Confidence | Featuring Kelly Burton of Boards by Kelly

Have you ever walked into a networking event, looked around the room, and realized you didn't know a single person? In this episode of Business Networking and Referrals, host Faithann Basore sits down with Kelly Burton, owner of Boards by Kelly, to tackle one of the most common fears networkers face: how to confidently enter conversations when you're attending an event alone. Kelly shares a real-life experience from a recent networking event where the friends she expected to see never showed up, leaving her to navigate a room full of strangers. Together, Faithann and Kelly discuss practical networking strategies that help turn awkward moments into meaningful connections. You'll learn how to identify approachable groups, use curiosity to overcome self-consciousness, give genuine compliments that spark conversation, and gracefully exit conversations when it's time to meet new people. They also discuss the importance of building authentic relationships, networking with competitors, and creating positive interactions that lead to referrals over time. Whether you're brand new to networking or simply looking to feel more confident in unfamiliar rooms, this episode offers actionable advice you can put to work at your very next event. In This Episode You'll Learn: What to do when you arrive at a networking event and don't know anyone How the "Three Question Reset" can help calm networking anxiety How to identify "open twos" and "open threes" and confidently join conversations already in progress How to enter existing conversations without feeling intrusive Why curiosity is one of the most powerful networking tools Conversation starters that create genuine connection How to gracefully leave a conversation and meet new people Why networking is about positive interactions, not immediate referrals The value of building relationships with competitors About Kelly Burton Kelly Burton is the owner of Boards by Kelly, an Oklahoma-based charcuterie board business that creates memorable food experiences for weddings, corporate events, graduations, engagement parties, and special celebrations. Alongside her sister Abby, Kelly has built a thriving business focused on making the event planning process effortless for clients while delivering beautiful, customized charcuterie displays. Resources Mentioned Boards by Kelly: Boards by Kelly Website Instagram: @boardsbykelly.okc Subscribe to Kelly's newsletter, The Gouda Life Listen to Faithann's episode: The Three Question Reset Learn more about the We Rise Conference: We Rise Conference Interested in personalized networking support? Schedule a discovery call with Faithann to explore ways to make networking easier, more enjoyable, and more effective for your business. Connect with Faithann Basore If you're ready to become more confident in networking rooms, strengthen your referral strategy, or develop a memorable introduction that opens doors, connect with Faithann Basore through The Networker's Tour Guide. Free Resource for Listeners: ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression. Grab your copy here ➡️ https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook