Networking at a conference is not just about handing out names and cards. It is actually the art of making connections between people, ideas and opportunities. As Michelle Jenne says, “Networking is not just about connecting people, it is about connecting people with ideas and opportunities.” Whether you are new to conference networking or experienced, a few important tips can make your professional journey easy and fruitful.
Entering a conference for the first time can be like walking into a room of strangers. It may seem a bit scary, but with the right preparation and strategy, the experience can be extremely rewarding. Networking is an extremely important activity for professional development and knowledge sharing.
1. Study your potential network
The first preparation for effective networking at a conference is to gather information about the people you want to connect with. If a list of conference attendees is available, study their latest work, social media posts, and their organizations. If a list is not available, gather information from social media hashtags and the organizers’ website.
This preparation will not only make you feel confident, but you will also have enough material to start conversations.
2. Create your schedule with networking in mind
When the conference schedule is out, create a personalized schedule based on your preferences. Include break times and consider occasionally skipping a session to spend time in common areas with other participants.
If the conference has a mobile app, use it to set your preferences for sessions and networking. This will help you better manage your time.
3. Prepare conversation starters
Starting a conversation with people you meet at a conference can sometimes be challenging. So think of some conversation starters while you’re traveling or before the event. This will not only ease your nerves, but also make the conversation flow naturally.
Simple starting questions could be:
- “Where are you from?”
- “What interests you about this conference?”
- “Which sessions or speakers are you looking forward to seeing?”
4. Prepare your personal “elevator pitch”
Along with starting a conversation, it’s important to be able to introduce yourself in a concise and effective way. It should be no more than 30 seconds long and include your work, research area, or reason for coming to the conference.
If you’re meeting different types of participants, adapt your pitch accordingly. This will make you look professional and memorable.
5. Plan your “exit strategy”
Sometimes you may get stuck in a conversation that drags on for a long time or that does not interest you. So, have a way to end the conversation gracefully.
There is a simple formula: “Genuine compliment + follow-up item + handshake = memorable impression”. This method keeps your professional image positive.
6. Say the first words, not the last
If you have already prepared for networking, try to connect with your important contacts in advance. Follow them on LinkedIn or Twitter and express your desire to meet.
In a real conversation, listen more and speak less. Understand the interests of others and think about what you can offer them. Do not try to prove yourself “interesting” at the very first meeting.
7. Use the conference app
If the conference’s mobile app is available, use it to connect with other participants beforehand. It often has networking features that help you better prepare for networking.
8. Beware of the “buddy system”
Attending a conference alone may seem scary, but always being with someone you know can limit your networking opportunities. Occasionally go to sessions alone or break away from your group to meet new people.
9. Don’t beat yourself up if you make networking mistakes
It’s normal to make mistakes when networking for the first time. Whether it’s forgetting a speaker’s name or introducing yourself to the wrong person, these experiences can become funny and teachable stories later.
10. Build confidence at the exhibit booths
If you’re having trouble getting started networking, visit the exhibit booths. People there are usually friendly and comfortable to talk to. It’s a great way to build your confidence and connect with new people.
Strategies and tips like these not only improve your conference experience, but also expand and expand your professional network. In the next steps, you can learn how to turn small conversations into lasting professional relationships and how to identify the right opportunities and turn them into something beneficial to your career.