How to network at a conference

^{10 Tips on Networking Like a Pro at a Conference}

1. Practice your elevator pitch. Practice your elevator pitch before you go. Who are you? What do you do? Why are you attending the Tribe Conference?
2. Show up early. Try to get to the conference early, and stand near the registration table, entrance, or food area. These are the places where people congregate.
3. Express interest in others. Be more interested in other people than yourself.
4. Ask questions. Ask questions, and actively listen to the answers. Use eye contact and body language to show you are listening.
Talk to strangers. Forget what your parents taught you. Everyone is there for a similar reason. You are all sharing the same experience.
Be personable. Use a person’s first name several times as you are speaking to help you remember it.
Take notes. Take notes on a person’s business card about your conversation to refer to later. Can you help this person?
Keep it fresh. Things can get stale during conferences. Bring mints and gum to keep your breath fresh.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and go easy on the alcohol.
Stay connected. Follow up with each person you meet after the conference. Staying in touch is a crucial part of networking.

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How to network and build contacts at conferences?

NETWORKING TIPS YOU SHOULD FOLLOW

1. Set networking goals. You have to have a clear direction, with a specific goal in mind, for your networking. …
2. Know where to do networking. Businesspeople must be feeling really lucky these days because, compared to, say, twenty, thirty, fifty years ago, there are more places, venues and platforms …
3. Understand your target. …

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How to network at conferences without being awkward?

Part 2 of 3: Making an Impression

1. Introduce yourself to people effectively. No matter who you’re talking to, whether it’s the person sitting next to you at a panel or someone with whom you’re riding the …
2. Ask people meaningful questions and really hear them out. A good networker is a good listener. …
3. Talk to presenters. …
4. Don’t get starstruck. …
5. Learn how to excuse yourself gracefully. …

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How do I connect to a video conference?

The following is a brief overview of how Video & TV Cast works:

• Install the Video & TV Cast application on your phone.
• Connect your phone and your Smart TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Use any video call application, such as Skype, WhatsApp Call, Zoom, etc.
• Hold down the ‘Tap Here to Cast’ button.
• Your video call will be mirrored on your TV.

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How to network and connect at any networking event?

To do so, follow these networking security best practices:

• Minimize the amount of sensitive or personal user data that you transmit over the network.
• Send all network traffic from your app over SSL.
• Consider creating a network security configuration, which lets your app trust custom certificate authorities (CAs) or restrict the set of system CAs that it trusts for secure communication.

How do you network a conference without being awkward?

Conference Tips: How to NetworkChat about the talks. … Write down additional information straight away. … Have a lot of conversations. … Join the event Facebook group. … Say ‘yes’ to off-site lunches with cool people. … Don’t be creepy. … Wait until speakers have a moment to recuperate before approaching them.More items…•

How do students network at a conference?

A student’s guide to networking at professional conferencesBe Prepared. Conferences are fast-paced, so it is often beneficial to create a schedule ahead of time. … Present your research. Presenting your research is a great way to connect with others. … Get involved. … Keep in touch.

How do you network at a big event?

9 Tips for Navigating Your First Networking EventHave a Goal. … Dress to Impress. … Bring Business Cards. … Make an Effective Introduction. … Listen First, then Speak. … Show Sincerity and Interest. … Get to the Point. … Take Notes.More items…

How do you socialize at a conference?

How to Make Meaningful Connections at ConferencesMake use of conference networking tools. … Arrive early. … Tweet with authenticity. … Make others talk about themselves. … Practice the spirit of generosity in all interactions. … Sit separately from office colleagues or friends. … Handle after hours socializing with aplomb.More items…•

How do you network at a virtual conference?

How to Network at a Virtual Event?Identify Your Networking Goals. … Provide Your Full Bio to the Event Organisers. … Engage and Participate in the Discussions. … Build a Small community. … Share Your Participation Pre- and Post-Event on Social Media. … Other Things to Consider to Maximise Your Virtual Event Networking Efforts.

How do introvert network a conference?

Schedule meetings ahead of time Identify a few people you are interested in meeting, and a month or so before the conference, send an email introducing yourself and asking if they have time to chat during one of the breaks.

What to say while networking?

STARTING A CONVERSATION AND INTRODUCING YOURSELF Greet people who appear to be alone and introduce people you know or have met to each other. Prepare an abstract to introduce yourself. Tell the person something relevant or interesting about yourself. Identify commonalities and use them as a basis for conversation.

How can I be good at networking?

Demonstrate your value to potential clients and employers with these simple successful networking tips:Meet People Through Other People. … Leverage Social Media. … Don’t Ask For A Job. … Use Your Resume as a Tool for Advice. … Don’t Take Up Too Much Time. … Let The Other Person Speak. … Present A Success Story.More items…•

What to talk about during networking events?

Conversation starters for professional gatheringsWhat do you love most about your job?What’s a fact about your position you didn’t know before getting hired?What’s the most interesting thing about your company?Which industry blogs do you follow?What would you say is the most important skill in your profession?More items…•

How do you talk to strangers at conferences?

Tweet ThisRelax, everyone is there to connect. … Talk to the person seated beside you. … Approach someone who asked a great question. … Ask a question yourself. … Pay attention to your body language. … Hang out near the food or drink areas. … Bathroom conversations don’t have to be off-limits. … Sit in the lobby.More items…•

How do you socialize on Zoom?

10 Ways to Socialize via ZoomCooking and eating meals.Visiting sick friends and family members.Dating.Sharing a few drinks over Happy Hour.Playing brick-and-mortar games.Playing video games.Watching movies and TV shows.Performing stand-up comedy.More items…•

How do I make friends in a conference?

Be a Familiar Face So, hang out in the common areas (hotel bar or Starbucks line, anyone?), introduce yourself immediately to the people sitting next to you in workshops, and attend social hours early on. By the end of the conference, people will be drawn to you—if only because they recognize you.

How do you network a professor at conference?

How to Network at a Conference: 10 Ways to Make Contacts Like a ProYour Assets.Pitch Perfect.Offer Don’t Ask.The Context Come On.Get In and Stay In.Know Your Exit Cues.Know Your Limits.Pre-Networking.More items…

What is academic networking?

It is the practice of managing multiple collaborative contacts and connections for social and professional benefits. If you can successfully tap key influential networks within your institution and wider academic discipline, you will be more likely to be nurtured toward success.

How to prepare for a conference?

Learn about presenters, attendees and workshops before the conference. Decide which events you’re most interested in attending, which attendees you want to meet and which companies you hope to connect with. Researching ahead of time can help you use your time effectively at the conference.

How to share information at a conference?

Business cards are often the best and easiest way to share your information with new connections. Write a personal note on the card before presenting it to your new connection to ensure they remember you.

How to approach a fellow attendee at a conference?

When approaching a fellow attendee at the conference, be confident. Walk up to them with a smile and a friendly salutation. Introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in connecting with them specifically. They’ll appreciate the ease with which you started the conversation.

What to bring to a conference?

Carry a small bag or briefcase with you during the day that has a notebook, pen, business cards, water, snacks and anything else you might need. Keeping your daily necessities with you ensures you’ll be able to make the most of your time at the conference and avoid unnecessary trips to your room.

Why use an app at a conference?

Use the app to ensure you’re getting the most out of the conference and not missing any presentations or other events.

Where do conferences take place?

Most conferences take place in large hotels or conference centers with attached accommodations . If possible, stay on-site or in the conference-recommended lodging. You’re more likely to meet people and have informal interactions and relationship-building opportunities than if you stay elsewhere.

What is a conference name tag?

Conference name tags often include the person’s name and company. Use the name tags to identify people and companies you’re interested in meeting and talking with. Greet new people by name or ask them about their business to get the conversation started.

1. Have Clear Goals and Objectives

Conferences tend to move at the “speed of social” these days. That is to say, people are moving from one conversation, session, or event to another, quickly. It’s easy to get lost in the flow of things. Identify clear objectives of sessions to attend, who you hope to meet, and what you want to take away, prior to the event.

2. Stay In The Same Hotel as the Conference is Being Held

Networking events, dinners, and activities will likely be held there or nearby. In addition to this, most of the speakers, panelists, etc will be staying there also. A “chance” meeting in the lobby, gym, hotel Starbucks, or elsewhere can help “break the ice” and lead to additional opportunities for a conversation later in the conference.

3. Go Prepared

If there are specific attendees, vendors or speakers you hope to meet and talk to, do your research and prepare well ahead of time. Read their latest book, blog posts, etc, and search for the latest news on their company.

4. Send an Email or Tweet Prior to the Event

Use the same approach mentioned above. Let them know that you value and have an interest in their work and that you would like to take a minute or two at the conference to introduce yourself.

5. Avoid the Helicopter Approach

Many times at conferences I see people begin to approach someone they would like to meet only to stop 5-10 feet away and go into “hover mode”. Nothing makes a person more nervous than the possibility that a stalker is nearby. Seeing you in “hover” mode, the person you hope to meet will most likely already be formulating their exit strategy.

6. Be Ready with Conversation Starters

If at some point the conversation gets “stuck” always have a few conversation starters to get it going again. Here are a few examples.

7. Be Approachable

Don’t spend all your time outside of conference sessions using your phone, laptop or tablet. By circulating and looking open and engaged, you’ll make it more likely that someone else, looking for someone to talk to, will approach you. Knowing “when” to network is just as import and as “how to network”.

What do conference pros need to know?

Conference pros not only have the skills to rock an event, they also have an arsenal of tools at their disposal. Before you go to the event, make sure you have the following in place: Your Badge: One of your most important, but often overlooked, assets for conferences is your badge. It is your first impression.

What is the right conference?

The right conference can be a game changer for your business. More importantly, the right conference, done the right way can prove to be a gold mine of opportunities. Whether you are going to a trade show, festival or business conference, you have to be prepared. You already are spending time, money and energy to get to the event.

Why do pros look forward to their event?

Pros look forward to their event because they are certain they will get new business from it. Pros know exactly how to work a room and walk up to a stranger like an old friend. Pros are a magnet for business cards because they aren’t the sleazy schmoozer types.

How Do You Network Effectively at an Event?

Whether you’re new to conference-style events or a seasoned veteran, take note of these 11 tips on how to level up your networking game.

How Do You Facilitate Networking at a Conference?

Now that we’ve given visitors and attendees a good idea of how to improve their networking skills at conferences, it is time to talk about the hosting end of the event.

Networking for Virtual Conferences

There are additional steps that you can take as an event manager to make sure your virtual events are just as effective and successful as physical events. Here are a few ideas that you can implement within virtual conferences.

How Do Students Network at a Conference?

Networking is not just for professionals. It can be a great tool for students as well. So, let’s take a look at some advice for students who want to learn how to network at a conference. Here are a few tips.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we understand the value and critical aspect of networking when it comes to business, academics, or even hobbyist events and conferences. Making new and meaningful connections is what helps us grow in the long term. Hopefully, you got something valuable out of this guide.

What is the goal of a conference?

OK, so maybe that’s not universally true, but it’s true of the people who are worth meeting. The goal of a conference is to learn, grow, and connect. If you’re a part of that process, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Do you know who you are speaking to?

The truth is, you never know to whom you’re speaking. While there’s something to be said for making a list of speakers and attendees you want to prioritize, the best connections are often spontaneous. This point shows up over and over in the tips.

How to improve conference networking?

To improve conference networking, be intentional with your networking event objective. Effective conference networking is more than just fancy technology and tools. Defining a networking event objective is just as important.

What is conference planning?

Conference planning is well underway. You’ve secured a convention center in a city that’s going to get people excited. You’ve booked a keynote speaker that is sure to wow! You’re focused on providing engaging and interactive sessions for your attendees. You know that conference networking is important, but you’re not sure how to help your attendees make meaningful connections.

What is technology enhanced networking?

Technology-enhanced networking can offer your attendees networking opportunities that go above and beyond traditional mix and mingle events. Between matching software, event apps that allow for online and in-person networking, and technology that has LinkedIn integrations, advancements in technology are helping event planners provide more strategic networking to their event-goers.

Why do planners use event apps?

Event apps help event planners communicate with event attendees about session updates, speaker information, and schedule changes. For this reason, some event planners prefer to use event apps to eliminate the need for multiple technology or software companies.

What is networking in business?

And that’s a lot easier for your attendees to do when they are connecting with people whose experience aligns with theirs. This way, they are able to better share knowledge, bounce ideas, discuss trends, overcome challenges, and talk about the industry and/or job outlook.

Why is speed networking important?

Because instead of having to gather up the courage to approach complete strangers in a crowded convention center, everything is facilitated for them.

What is roundtable networking?

Roundtables are a not-so-new form of networking, but another event format that is greatly improved with the help of technology. With targeted roundtables, strategic seat assignments can be created with the touch of a button so that event planners can strategically bring groups of people together without having to spend a ton of time in excel trying to manually match people.

What is networking in a conference?

In fact, networking should be about getting in contact with people whom you like and respect, so that you can share your ideas and you can both benefit from each other’s perspectives. When you’re chatting in a friendly way with an acquaintance at a conference, that’s networking. When you get to know a new person at a conference dinner, …

Why is networking important after a conference?

Networking after a conference will help people to remember you and increases the likelihood of a project or collaboration coming together.

What do you think of a keynote speech?

What did you think of the keynote speech? You can assume that most people will have attended the conference keynote speech and that it’s a subject of interest to everyone. Ask whether they agreed with the arguments that the keynote speaker made, and if they agree with their approaches.

Why are collaborations so slow?

Inevitably, however, collaborations don’t always work out and they are generally very slow to produce any useable research due to the administrative and communicative challenges presented by working with someone at a distance.

Why is it important to follow up on a conference?

When you’re at a conference, it can become a blur of new people, new ideas, and new places. When you’re meeting tens or even hundreds of people over the span of a few days, it is extremely difficult to remember every person. Even when you have a good rapport with someone, there’s a risk you won’t remember each …

How to be a good networker?

Collaboration, collaboration, collaboration. Be curious. Be social. Keep those business cards handy. Get your name out there. Don’t be afraid of the big dogs. It’s a balancing act. Some networking questions to get you started.

Is it useful to connect with people on social media?

It’s also obviously useful to connect with as many people on social media as possible, especially on a platform specific to jobs like Linkedin. You’ll be able to connect with people easily and have all your new contacts in one place.