Networking events are about connections, not food—but food is everywhere. Research by Herman and Polivy shows social eating expectations powerfully influence consumption. Navigate by: eating before if hungry, positioning away from food tables, holding a drink, making deliberate food choices rather than continuous grazing. Nobody successful ever networked better because they had more appetizers.
This companion covers the networking challenge, pre-event strategy, at the event, the finger food trap, drinks, and the exit strategy. (5 min read)