Do Your Homework: Learn About Other Attendees
If possible, check the attendee list before you arrive. Learn who will be at the event and read a little about their background, current projects, and interests. LinkedIn is a good resource here.
Write down a few important facts or questions for people you’d like to meet. This helps start conversations and shows you care about connecting.
Set Your Networking Goals
Think about what you want from the conference. Are you looking for new partners or clients? Are you hoping to learn about a certain topic? Setting a few key goals will help you choose which sessions to attend and who to talk with.
Prepare Your Introduction
Prepare a short introduction—sometimes called an elevator pitch. In 30 seconds, explain who you are, what your organization does, and what you’re interested in this year. This makes the start of every meeting or new encounter easier.
Make the Most of One-to-One Meetings
If you have scheduled meetings, plan what you want to discuss in advance. Write down your main topics, any questions you have, and what you hope to get out of each chat. This will keep the conversation focused and meaningful.
During the meeting, listen carefully, share your ideas briefly, and take notes on important points. Afterward, send a thank-you message that mentions something specific you talked about, and suggest a next step if you’d like to.
Network Beyond the Meetings
Some of the best connections happen outside formal sessions! Here’s how to make the most of those moments:
- Join Social Events and Tours: If there’s a city tour or networking dinner, go along. People are often more relaxed in these settings, and great conversations happen naturally.
- Start Friendly Conversations: While waiting for an event to start, sitting at breakfast, or in transit, introduce yourself to someone new. A simple “Where are you from?” or “What brought you to this conference?” can lead to interesting discussions.
- Be Approachable and Positive: Smile, keep an open attitude, and be ready to listen. Others will be more likely to talk to you.
- Swap Stories and Experiences: Share what you’re working on, but also show interest in others’ work. Ask open questions like, “What projects are you excited about?” or “Have you attended before?”
- Keep Notes: After a good conversation, jot down the person’s name and key points you discussed. This will help you remember them later.
Be Mindful and Flexible
- Arrive at meetings and events on time.
- Don’t fill your schedule too tightly—leave time for spontaneous chats.
- Remember, not every conversation needs to lead to a partnership; learning from others is valuable too.
Follow Up
After the conference, send follow-up messages to people you connected with. Thank them for their time, remind them of your discussion, and suggest a way to keep in touch. This helps turn new contacts into lasting partnerships or friendships.
