How do you make networking not feel gross? In this episode, I chat with my friend and Creative Educator Conference alum Angelica Pompy about the art of intentional relationship building at live events.

If you’ve been at an event with Angelica, you know she has networking down to a science! Angelica shares how she’s used small, intentional moves (like post-event video DMs and setting clear event intentions) to land speaking gigs, workshop collabs, and even sponsorship deals. Her strategies are rooted in genuine connection and service.

If you’ve ever left an event wondering, “Why was I even there?” this conversation will change how you show up next time.

https://youtu.be/wZW5lGWUBt8

Why Most Entrepreneurs Leave Events Feeling Meh

Ever leave an event thinking, “Why did I even come?” That feeling usually stems from one key issue: showing up without a plan. Angelica shares how early on in her entrepreneurial journey, she would leave events feeling disappointed—until she started asking herself why she was going in the first place.

Now, every time she steps into a room, she sets at least one clear intention—whether it’s connecting with three aligned entrepreneurs or pitching herself as a podcast guest. When you go in with an intention, you’re more likely to leave the room feeling good about your decision to be there.

The Power of the Follow-Up

The power of the room doesn’t end when you leave. You need to keep the conversation going. Angelica’s secret weapon when it comes to the follow-up is a personalized video DM. The keyword being personalized.

She’ll say, “Hey girl! I loved connecting at [event name]. I’d love to learn more about how you serve and see how I can support you.”

That one message has led to speaking gigs, co-hosted workshops, and deeper friendships for Angelica. Not only is she expanding her relationship with them outside of the room, she’s reminding them of who she is and where they met, but also opening the doors for them to share more with her.

This isn’t about being fake or pushing your services. It’s about creating space to receive and to serve.

Building Long-Term Wins from Real-Time Moments

At her first Creative Educator Conference, Angelica mentioned to a few attendees that she was looking to be a guest on podcasts. She left with six podcast guest bookings. The best part is that it didn’t feel transactional—it felt aligned.

Later on, her intentionality landed her:

A recurring workshop co-host
Speaking opportunities at new conferences
A full-circle sponsorship moment where an attendee from a past event later joined her retreat
Her highest profit margin yet at her upcoming Galentine’s event (thanks to relationship-based sponsorships)

Mistakes to Avoid at Events

While we’re always about keeping things positive, it’s important to know what not to do so that you don’t make these mistakes at networking events or conferences. Angelica didn’t hold back about what not to do:

Showing up with no plan: Know who you want to meet or what you want to get out of the room.
Being glued to your phone or laptop: It makes you unapproachable—and people notice.
Not doing your homework: Reach out to past attendees or the host. Make sure this event is aligned with your goals.

If you’re going to invest the time and money, plant your feet and be present. While we may not be saving lives as creative educators, we can unplug for a day.

From DM to Dollar: How Sponsors Say Yes

Angelica also broke down how she’s secured sponsorships—from her nail tech to big brands.

Her process is gold:

Keep a list of brands you love or have supported
Ask: “Would their ideal client benefit from being at this event?”
Reach out personally and present the win-win
Show proof of impact through your platform or email list engagement

She had one sponsor sign on two days after meeting her in person. It was a no-brainer because of that face-to-face trust.

Set Your Intention, Then Show Up

Whether you’re hosting, attending, or speaking, being intentional with your presence is what unlocks real connections and long-term business growth.

Ask yourself, “What is the purpose of this room for me?” If it doesn’t serve you in this season, give yourself permission to say no.

Mentioned in this Episode

Creative Educator Conference: layleeemadi.com/conference

Connect with Angelica

Website: angelicapompy.com

Business Church: angelicapompy.com/business-church

Instagram: instagram.com/angelicapompy

Looking for the Transcript?

DOWNLOAD NOW

The post 234: Event ROI Starts with Relationships: Strategic Networking for Creatives with Angelica Pompy appeared first on Laylee Emadi | Coach for Creative Educators.