Conferences can be a great experience. However, you want to make sure that you get the most out of them, so let's talk about how to network like the pro that you are.
Plan Ahead for Networking Success
Some of us are lucky to be able to attend with someone we already know, but that can hamper your networking activities. I challenge you to plan part of the event to be on your own.
Speaking of planning, look at the conference schedule ahead of time to identify which sessions you are most interested in attending. If there are specific speakers or other attendees that you want to connect with, research before attending to be prepared to talk about their latest news/posts/books. Have any questions or a comment you'd like to share with them ready in advance. It's a good idea to have a general idea of what you intend to do during the conference that aligns with your goals for the event.
PRO TIP - don't fill every moment with a session and spend that "extra" time in the exhibition hall or lobby to be available for conversations with others.
Strike up some networking before the conference
If there is a built in community around the conference, like the Canvas InstCon Community - join the community and start to meet others who are attending the conference. Take the time to connect on social media with keynote speakers or presenters of sessions you plan to attend; drop them a line letting them know you are attending and are looking forward to their talk.
When posting related to the event, use the conference hashtag (ie #INSTCon23). This allows you to begin developing a relationship with other attendees and will make it easier to connect in-person during the event. Also, it provides a way to learn about unadvertised conference-related events or meet-ups. [I mean have you heard about the unconference?]
Before you leave for that amazing conference, you want to make sure that your information in the conference database is correct. This is the information that usually populates on your badge. Your badge is one aspect of a first impression that you make, so your name and the name of your organization should come correct.
If the conference has an app, download it and be prepared to share you contact information (like your LinkedIn and/or Twitter/Threads profile) if it allows you to do so. Take a quick look at your social media accounts that you will be sharing to ensure they are up-to-date and attractive.
PRO TIP - Attach a sticker or something else a little special to your badge for it to stand out from all the others as a conversation starter; it makes you more approachable.
Strike gold with contacts
Download the LinkedIn app on your phone; it allows you to easily connect via QR code with others and vice versa. When possible, connect immediately with others on LinkedIn or other social media providing some context about the conversation you shared. Having some prepared text templates in Notes/Notepad can expedite your connection. Have some basic responses available to send to new contacts. You can also use text replacement on your phone to set up these type of time saving messages.
Also, ensure that you bring a good number of business cards to exchange (if you are meeting prospective employers, have lots of your resumes on hand as well). While you should have your well-charged phone with you, don't spend the whole time locked into it or your laptop. You will have a better opportunity to be approached when you look open and ready to engage with others.
Take a Swing at Meeting New People
Make your pitch! Tell a little bit about yourself, to share your passion and expertise. This is something that you will want to practice well in advance of the conference. Learn how scripting this type of communication can be valuable. Be prepared with a few variations, depending on with whom you are speaking.
PRO TIP - Be ready to answer general questions about the organization you represent, including statistics. If this is not something that you normally do in your regular role, have a "cheat" card prepared with this information.
Strike up a conversation
Go to sessions early and instead of sitting on your own, sit in a partially filled row or table. Introduce yourself and ask a question: what made them want to come to this presentation; how are you liking today's sessions; what's your favorite session so far; come to a lot of conferences like this; what brings you to the conference; what are you hoping to get out of the conference; is this your first time at the conference, etc.
Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don't. -Bill Nye
Remember, people come to network during conferences so approaching a total stranger isn't that awkward. Smiling and listening with genuine curiosity about others and their passion; it will go a long way to kindle a great conversation. Networking is an exchange; determine how you can add value to the people you are meeting- not just what they can do for you.
PRO TIP - Bring mints to share as they are a great ice breaker.
