With SiGMA Europe 2023 now literally around the corner, it’s time to polish your networking skills and make the best out of the events and parties that will surely fill in your calendar. Industry professionals will be flying into Malta from all over the world, so you will have plenty of opportunities to engage in some interesting conversations and also close business deals.
The team from Swedish financial solution scale up Zimpler will be present in full force at stand 1102 and they are already excited about the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, share expertise and acquire new prospects. We spoke to two of their superstars to ask them how they approach networking and what they will expect from the event.
Zimpler Co-Founder Johan Friis, recommends getting out of one’s comfort zones to discover new potential business partners. “Take time to walk around the fair and visit the companies you are interested in but try to focus on the ones you don’t know about. SiGMA is an opportunity to create new connections. You can spend the rest of the year nurturing your existing partnerships. Spontaneous meetings are also the best thing at events like these.” Even though the opportunities to party won’t be lacking, Johan recommends maintaining a disciplined routine. “Don’t go out partying, but pay at least a short visit to the places you know that people will go to socialize after the fair. Also, if you must work at your desktop, it is preferable to do it at the hotel lobby and be completely available for business discussions. That’s why we are at SiGMA and the event is an excellent platform for human interactions.”
For Chief Growth Officer, Nicolas Köllerstedt, preparing in advance and establishing clear roles within his team are key to the success of the event. “When I participate in industry summits, I like to do some homework beforehand. I would always try to pre-book as many meetings as possible, often through my LinkedIn network.”
Nicolas also emphasizes the importance of teamwork. “All team members should know their specific roles during the event. It’s important to set slots for everyone to know availability and have a set agenda in terms of organization and who is doing what and when.”
Apart from the social aspect of networking, its final aim is to generate brand awareness and create long-lasting business relationships. “Ensure that all prospective meetings are booked. In our case, everyone should be aware that we are representing Zimpler. Our goal is to spread the word about the company in the best way possible, make meaningful connections and schedule follow-up meetings even after the event has concluded. Strategy is key: always keep the next step in mind.”
Head of iGaming Rhi Burns offers some practical tips to networking and reminds us not to be too pushy with sales. “First and foremost, be a good listener! People always remember someone who actively listened and made them feel heard and don’t try to sell at any cost. Be friendly, be open, be curious about the other person.”
Follow ups are also important as the real work starts with nurturing relations with your new contacts “Keep in touch. If you meet someone, connect later on LinkedIn. Engage with their content, drop them a note if you have something to say, but not just to drop a sales pitch. Do you remember them mentioning their favourite food? Hit them with a restaurant recommendation! Make an effort to remember names and faces. If you see the same people around, it becomes easier to reach out and say hello.”
Of course planning and preparation are two critical aspects of networking. “Do the pre-work. Many times when I’m networking, people come and introduce themselves to me because they’ve seen my content on LinkedIn and feel they already know me. Post industry related news, be active!” Rhi is also looking forward to enjoying the event and meeting new and old faces in the iGaming industry. “I enjoy the social part and catching up with old friends and colleagues. SiGMA will also provide me with an opportunity to see what our competitors are up to and, of course, I can’t wait to engage in some good conversation around Zimpler Go and its launch in Brazil!”
About Zimpler
Zimpler is a financial solutions scaleup founded in Sweden in 2012. We uncomplicate business operations and accelerate growth with faster payments, stronger financial compliance and better service. With the sight set on the global stage, Zimpler aims to democratize payments and enable growth opportunities for businesses across the world.
Read more on zimpler.com and follow Zimpler on LinkedIn.
Join us in Malta between the 13 – 17 November for SiGMA Europe 2023
SiGMA Europe’s Malta Week festival brings together a diverse and international group of industry leaders for a convergence of expo, conference, and networking. The event will be held at the Mediterranean Maritime Hub (MMH), a larger, more dynamic venue that promises a raw, industrial, and unconventional space unlike anything ever used before.