How to find preceptors at networking events

The first thing you probably think of when you hear the word networking is fear, anxiety, or maybe just straight-up boredom. If that’s the case, it’s time to flip that mindset!

Meeting new people, whether it’s at a networking event, a random coffee shop, or even while waiting in line at Target, is the same in both professional and personal settings. The goal isn’t just to “network”; it’s to build genuine connections and build connections.

Instead of looking for a secret handshake to get a preceptor, think of it this way: Turn strangers into friends and fans. Being connected through various events can help you build relationships and expand your professional circle. Once you shift your perspective, networking stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling more like a social adventure (with career perks!).

But hey, we know saying this is easier than doing it. So, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate networking events like a pro and walk away with solid preceptor leads, without breaking into a nervous sweat.

How to prepare before the event

Most people walk into networking events feeling like they’ve been thrown into the deep end with no floaties—awkward, unsure, and just hoping they don’t embarrass themselves. That’s why preparation is key. If you walk in with a solid plan, you’re already ahead of half the room.

Connecting with decision makers at these events can significantly impact your business relationships and opportunities.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success before the event even begins:

Step 1: Establish your purpose

Yes, you’re looking for a preceptor—but don’t make that your only reason for attending. Networking events are about building relationships first, opportunities second. They are intentionally designed for individuals to interact and form valuable connections.

These events can also be a chance to:

• Learn about industry trends and advancements
• Connect with experienced NPs who could become future mentors
• Discover job opportunities or new career paths
• Find like-minded professionals who share your goals
• Meet potential business partners or future colleagues

Walking in with a give-first mindset changes everything. Instead of just thinking, What can I get?, flip it to, What can I contribute?

As a nurse practitioner student, what do you bring to the table? Maybe it’s fresh industry knowledge, a unique perspective, or even just the energy and enthusiasm that experienced professionals appreciate. Show up with something to offer, and you’ll stand out.

Step 2: Choose events that match your comfort level

You don’t have to throw yourself into a 200-person event if that’s not your thing. The best networking happens when you’re comfortable enough to be yourself—so choose wisely.

Consider:

• Smaller, more intimate meetups if big crowds overwhelm you
• Panel discussions or workshops where networking is built into the event flow
• Virtual events if in-person networking still makes you break out in a cold sweat
• Specialty-focused groups (e.g., cardiology, primary care, telehealth) where you’ll have an easier time finding relevant connections
• Happy hour events for a relaxed atmosphere with drinks and appetizers, perfect for informal networking
• Expo hall events to connect with industry professionals, explore vendor offerings, and engage in social activities

There’s no one way to network. Go where you feel at ease, and you’ll have a much easier time making meaningful connections.

Step 3: Shift your perspective & expectations

If you walk into a networking event with only one goal—“find a preceptor or bust”—you’ll leave frustrated. Why? Because people can smell desperation from a mile away.

Instead, focus on relationship building first. Even if someone can’t precept you right now, they could:

• Refer you to someone who can
• Become a mentor down the road
• Connect you to job opportunities in the future
• Offer guidance that makes your NP journey smoother

Successful networkers play the long game. They don’t walk in expecting immediate results. They focus on creating genuine connections, knowing those relationships will pay off over time.

So, take the pressure off yourself. Your only goal at the event? Make meaningful connections. The rest will follow.

Step 4: Make pre-event connections

Most people don’t realize networking starts before the event. If the attendee list is public, use it to your advantage. Sign up for event updates to stay informed and make the most of your networking opportunities.

Here’s how to warm up your connections before you even step into the room:

• Find key people who interest you—whether that’s potential preceptors, experienced NPs, or industry leaders.
• Send them a quick message on LinkedIn or via email:
• “Hey [Name], I saw you’ll be at [Event Name] tomorrow. I’m really looking forward to it! I’d love to say hello in person—I’ll be wearing [something recognizable] so feel free to come find me!”
• Engage with their content if they’re active on LinkedIn—comment on a post or share something relevant to start the conversation early.

This simple move makes introductions way easier because now you’re not a total stranger when you walk in.

Most people don’t do this, which means you instantly stand out. Plus, when someone already knows your name, they’ll be more likely to introduce you to others—expanding your network before you even say your first hello.

Preparation = confidence. Walking into a networking event blind is like going into an exam without studying—it’s a recipe for stress. But when you prep ahead of time, you’re not just showing up, you’re showing up with purpose, confidence, and strategy.

Now that you know how to prep, let’s talk about how to actually work the room and make those connections count.

What to do during the event

Alright, you’re prepped and ready. You walk into the room, grab a name tag, and scan the crowd. Now what? This is where most people freeze—but you won’t because you’re walking in with a game plan.

Networking events are a great opportunity to foster new connections among professionals in architecture and construction.

Here’s how to navigate the event like a pro, make meaningful connections with other attendees, and get closer to finding that preceptor.

Step 5: Have a few great questions ready

A good conversation isn’t about having the perfect elevator pitch—it’s about knowing how to ask the right questions to foster valuable professional connections.

Instead of the tired “So, what do you do?” (which everyone has answered a thousand times), try these:

• “What cool project are you working on right now?”
• “What do you love about your specialty?”
• “How did you end up in [insert city]?”
• “Five years ago, did you think you’d be here in this [career, job, city]?”
• “If you could do something in your career differently, what would it be?”

These questions do two things:

1. They make people think. Generic small talk won’t make you memorable, but these questions will.
2. They open the door for deeper connections. You’ll learn what motivates them, what excites them, and what they might be able to help you with (or vice versa).

Bonus tip: Actually listen to their answers. Don’t just wait for your turn to talk—engage, react, and show genuine curiosity. People remember how you make them feel, and showing real interest makes a lasting impression.

Step 6: Be a connector

Want to be someone people remember? Start introducing people to each other and help them expand their professional contacts.

• If you meet an NP who says they’re hiring and, 20 minutes later, you meet someone looking for a role, connect them.
• If someone mentions they’re interested in telehealth and you just met someone who runs a telehealth practice, introduce them.
• If a speaker mentions an opportunity and you know someone who’d be a great fit, bring them together.

People appreciate connectors because they’re rare. When you help others, you naturally build a reputation as someone valuable to know—which means when it’s time for you to ask for something (like a preceptor), people will be more inclined to help.

Networking isn’t just about what you can get—it’s about what you can give. And when you give first, the opportunities come back to you.

Step 7: Ask for further connections

Here’s the thing: Your ideal preceptor might not be in the room—but someone who knows them might be.

That’s why one of the best networking moves is to ask:

• “Is there anyone else you think I should meet?”
• “Do you know anyone who might be open to precepting an NP student?”
• “Would you be open to making an introduction?”

This isn’t aggressive—it’s strategic. Most people want to help but won’t think of it unless you ask. When you position it casually and with confidence, you’ll be surprised how many people are willing to connect you with someone in their network.

Pro tip: Make it easy for them. If they say yes, offer to follow up via email or LinkedIn so they don’t have to track you down later.

Step 8: Connect on Social Media immediately

Here’s where a lot of people drop the ball. They meet someone great, have a solid conversation, and then… disappear.

Don’t wait. The second you get to your car (or later that evening), send that LinkedIn request.

• Keep it personal: “Hey [Name], great meeting you at [Event Name]! I really enjoyed our chat about [topic]. Looking forward to staying in touch.”
• If they mentioned a job opening, opportunity, or introduction, follow up on it.
• Engage with their content after connecting—comment on their posts, share something relevant, or send a quick message if you come across something they’d find interesting.

This isn’t “weird” or “too soon.” In fact, people expect this. Networking doesn’t end when you leave the event—it’s what you do after that solidifies the relationship.

Own the Room

Walking into a networking event doesn’t have to feel like an awkward obligation. With the right approach, it can actually be an opportunity—not just to find a preceptor, but to build a network that supports your entire NP career and helps you form valuable connections.

Now that you know what to do at the event, let’s move on to the most important step: what to do after it’s over to turn these connections into real opportunities.

What to do after the event

Networking doesn’t end when you walk out the door. If you don’t follow up, you might as well not have gone in the first place. Connections fade fast, and people meet a lot of faces at these events—so you need to make sure you stay on their radar and build connections.

Here’s how to turn those handshakes and quick chats into real, lasting professional relationships.

Step 9: Follow up within 24 hours

This is non-negotiable. If you don’t reach out within a day, your name starts fading from memory. If you already know you’ll be swamped the next day, prep your follow-up message ahead of time.

Most people prefer social media DMs or texts over emails—because, let’s be honest, nobody wants to dig through their inbox. Keep it simple, but make it personal:

Example Follow-Up Message:

"Great chatting yesterday at [event name]! I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic]. Would love to grab coffee or hop on a quick call in the next few days. Do you have any advice on [topic]? Looking forward to staying in touch!"

This works because:

• It reminds them who you are (people forget quickly)
• It keeps the conversation open-ended
• It makes it easy for them to say yes

People are happy to help if they feel like you’re genuinely engaged and listening—so show them you actually care.

Step 10: Set up a follow-up meeting (if possible)

If you’re in the same city, meet in person. A coffee chat, quick lunch, or even stopping by their workplace can be way more impactful than a Zoom call or text exchange.

We get it—you’re busy, they’re busy. But investing that time now pays off later.

If an in-person meetup isn’t an option, then a quick video call is the next best thing. The goal is to build an actual relationship—not just collect contacts like trading cards.

Pro tip: If they’re hesitant about a full meeting, suggest something casual like, “Would love to hear more about your experience in [specialty]. Would a quick 15-minute call work sometime this week?”

It’s short, non-committal, and increases your chances of getting a “yes.”

Final thoughts: Networking is a skill, not a personality trait

If networking feels unnatural to you, you’re not alone. Most NPs aren’t trained for this—it’s not exactly covered in clinicals. But the good news? It’s a skill. And like any skill, the more you do it, the better you get.

Here’s what to remember:

• Networking is a long game. Even if someone can’t precept you now, they could help in the future.
• Always be willing to give first. People remember and appreciate those who help them, not just those who ask for favors.
• Follow up. Most people don’t, so if you do, you immediately stand out.
• Keep practicing. The more events you attend, the easier it gets.

Put in the effort now, and you won’t just find a preceptor—you’ll build a career-changing network that supports you long after you graduate.

Need more help? Follow us on social media for more tips on securing clinical rotations, job opportunities, and insider advice from experienced NPs. We’re here to make this process easier for you.

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Now go out there and make those connections happen.

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