Conference Time: Never Miss a Great Networking Opportunity Again!

Networking at a conference is akin to shooting fish in a barrel.  It’s a perfect situation in which you have dozens or perhaps hundreds of professionals who share an industry, occupation, a market, or use of similar specialized technologies.  Interesting and valuable contacts are there, ready for you to meet. Yet, how often do you leave a conference with a pocketful of cards for people you never intend to contact? The following are a few tips so you will never miss a great networking opportunity again.

Plan Ahead.

Review the attendee list in advance.  Scope out people that you would like to meet.  Ask the event coordinators if there is a way to connect with your top two or three targets. You might find that their company is a host for one of the mixers or perhaps they are volunteering at one of the activities.  Also, keep an eye on nametags; you might meet one of their co-workers who can help make a connection.

Location. Location. Location.

Hotel rooms at the conference site sell-out quickly.  Book early so you can stay at the site. If not, find a place within walking distance. Tap into networking opportunities in the hotel common areas, including the restaurant, business center, bar, and lobby.

Early Bird….

Always arrive early to mixers, workshops, and presentations.  This gives you the advantage of greeting your targets as they arrive, as well as a change to meet the presenter and hosts.

Volunteer.

Working at the registration desk, an information table, or a reception table allows you to meet many attendees as well as the event organizers.  It also places you in a position of responsibility, which is good for your brand.

Quality over Quantity.

When it comes to building relationships over a short period, quality over quantity is best.  Better to meet three excellent contacts than to hand out your business card to 40 people with whom you may never speak again.

Good follow-up.

Exchange contact information at the appropriate moment.  Take notes on the back of business cards or via your smartphone so you can recall key points about each contact following the conference. After the conference, use this information to send a brief follow-up message. If you promised any information, be sure to share it promptly. 

Make a commitment to never miss a networking opportunity, especially at professional conferences.  Establish a strategy using the above suggestions and act with purpose throughout the conference.  The result will be one, two, or more valuable connections.