How to Network Like a Pro at ICSC: Jim Fried’s Insider Playbook

In Episode 834 of Fried on Business, host Jim Fried pulls back the curtain on one of the most valuable skills in real estate and retail development—networking at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC).

Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned pro, Jim offers step-by-step strategies to ensure you leave the conference with more than just a handful of business cards. His insider tips cover everything from pre-event preparation to post-event follow-up, helping you turn introductions into real opportunities.

Key points include:

• Plan with Purpose – How to research attendees, set goals, and schedule meetings before you arrive.
• Make a Memorable First Impression – The do’s and don’ts of introducing yourself at high-energy networking events.
• Follow Up for Success – Why timely, value-driven follow-ups are the secret to turning contacts into clients.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls – How to keep your conversations meaningful without being pushy.

Jim’s advice blends practical tactics with a people-first mindset, emphasizing authenticity, curiosity, and finding ways to create value for others. By applying his approach, you’ll be able to stand out in a sea of professionals and build connections that last well beyond the event.

🎧 Whether your goal is to close deals, find partners, or simply expand your network, this episode will prepare you to network like a pro at ICSC.

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Jim Fried has been a real estate business person since 1980 and has had his own radio show since 2009.

Mr. Fried specializes in capitalizing commercial real estate transactions, unearthing urban land opportunities and is also a private lender.

He has been active in the real estate industry for many years as a financial intermediary, broker and investor. He has experience with many property types including, but not limited to: apartments, condominiums, retail centers, office buildings, industrial parks and health care – with a special focus on memory care.

Jim has closed over $3BB in real estate transactions during his career in markets across the eastern US.

Jim uses his communication skills to inform and entertain on his weekly podcast show – Fried on Business. Of course, the show discusses real estate, but he also tackles issues such as branding, sports business, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, public private partnerships as well as health and wellness.

He is also a mentor to many up and coming people in the real estate industry through his membership on the Board of The University of Florida’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies.

Mr. Fried is a winner of the Miami-Dade Public School Alumni Achievement Award.

Contact Jim via email at jim@friedonbusiness.com