Fall is conference season! If you’re one of the many people taking advantage of these amazing networking opportunities, you’re in the right place. Conferences can be a goldmine for networking, but it’s essential to have a game plan in place to make the most of your time and connections. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with networking strategies and tips to ensure your conference experience is a success. From preparing before you attend to maximizing your time at the event and continuing to build your network afterward, we’ve got you covered.
Are you attending HR Tech in Las Vegas? CollabWORK will be there Oct. 9–13 and would love to meet you. If you’re hiring, enter for a chance to get your first month of CollabWORK free and book a demo with us here.
Before You Attend, or Even Book
Attending a conference can be a valuable opportunity for professionals to gain knowledge, network with industry peers, and stay up to date on the latest trends and developments. However, in order to make the most out of the conference experience, it is important to prepare beforehand.
One of the first steps in preparing for a conference is to research and choose the right conferences to attend. Look for conferences that align with your professional goals and interests, and consider the reputation and credibility of the organizers. Subscribe to newsletters and follow industry blogs to stay updated on upcoming conferences and events.
You found the perfect conference; now what?
The work, uh, we mean prep, has just be. Here are 10 things to keep in mind before you sit back, relax and enjoy the conference. (We’re kidding, there’s no sitting back or relaxing, but we do sure hope you enjoy!)
1. Set Clear Goals
Define what you want to achieve through networking at the conference. Are you looking for new clients, job opportunities, or industry knowledge? Setting clear goals will help you prioritize your efforts.
2. Do Your Research
Before attending the conference, research the speakers, attendees, and exhibitors. Identify potential connections and companies you want to connect with. This will help you make targeted and meaningful conversations.
3. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
Craft a concise and engaging introduction that clearly communicates who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for. Practice your elevator pitch to deliver it confidently.
4. Be Approachable
Smile, maintain open body language, and make eye contact. Approach others and start conversations. Don’t wait for people to come to you. Be curious and genuinely interested in learning about others.
5. Listen and Engage
When networking, focus on listening rather than talking. Ask open-ended questions to show your interest and encourage conversation. Active listening helps build rapport and fosters deeper connections.
6. Exchange Business Cards
Bring plenty of business cards and exchange them with the people you meet. Take a moment to jot down relevant details about your conversation on the back of the cards to help you remember later.
7. Follow-Up
After the conference, follow-up with the connections you made. Send personalized emails or LinkedIn messages to express your gratitude for the conversation and interest in keeping the relationship alive.
8. Attend Networking Events
Take advantage of official networking events organized by the conference. These events provide an opportunity to meet a larger group of attendees and expand your network.
9. Utilize Social Media
Use social media platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn to engage with conference attendees and speakers. Share interesting insights, ask questions, and connect with people online to continue the conversation beyond the conference.
10. Offer Value
Remember that networking is a two-way street. Look for opportunities to provide value to the people you meet. Offer your expertise, connect them with relevant contacts, or share valuable resources. Being a giver will strengthen your relationships.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to make meaningful connections at conferences and unlock new opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Attending HR Tech?
It’s Oct. 10–13 in Las Vegas and we’d love to see you there! Before then, don’t forget to:
- Enter for a chance to get your first month of CollabWORK for FREE
- Schedule a meeting with us by entering the above contest (we’ll then email you our calendar), or complete this form
- Stop by our booth. We’re in the Startup Pavilion, kiosk #314BH, and will be presenting at Pitchfest Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 5:30 pm