02 Apr 2019
Conferences. Am I the only one who has a love hate-relationship with them? Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy going to them. Networking with people, attending presentations - there's value for sure. However, then I have to network with people and attend presentations! See the struggle?
Over time, I have realized I need to set myself up for success and prepare in advance for attending conferences and trade shows, rather than have the passive attitude of “whatever comes along”. Here are my tips in making any conference or trade show successful and beneficial to attend.
Remember, you are at a professional event with your colleagues and peers. There is never really an “off time” at conferences, especially if your intent is to learn, network and grow. While there is nothing wrong with having fun and relaxing, be mindful of how much you are drinking. Nobody wants to see you limbo.
Prior to the event, you will receive information from the event coordinators. Carefully take time to plan your days. What sessions would you like to attend? Who do you want to meet and network with?
There are over 590 million professionals on LinkedIn.
Make sure the contact information in your phone is up-to-date so you can share it.
Attendee: “So what do you do?” Me: ”I’m in storage”
If you have read anything business-related in the past 10 years, you have heard this term.
With these 6 tips in hand, you will be able to master any conference you attend. With them, try to remember the most important - always be authentic in who you are.
