How to Network at Industry Conferences

In a world where every executive has a firm handshake and a stack of business cards, how do you become the person everyone remembers after a conference? After attending dozens in the past decade, I've developed a strategy that transforms conferences from transactional meetups into relationship goldmines. ♟️Pre-Conference LinkedIn Strategy The real networking begins weeks before the event. Review the speaker and attendee lists, then connect with key individuals on LinkedIn with a personalized message: "I noticed we’re both attending the Stand & Deliver event. I'd love to connect. See you soon." This pre-conference connection creates a warm introduction and significantly increases your chances of meaningful engagement. 👗👔The Memorable Wardrobe Element In my early career, I blended in at conferences. Now? I'm known for wearing a little more color (often D&S Executive Career Management teal) or patterns that are professional yet distinctive. When someone says, "Oh, you're the one with the great dress," you've already won half the networking battle. 🤝Contribute Before You Collect** Instead of collecting business cards, focus on providing immediate value in conversations. Can you connect someone to a resource? Share relevant research? Offer a solution to a challenge they mentioned? The executives who stand out aren't those who take the most cards—they're the ones who solve problems on the spot. What networking approach has worked for you at recent conferences? Share in the comments below! #ExecutiveLeadership #NetworkingStrategy #ConferenceSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment

Just a few years ago, attending an industry conference may have sounded to some like a reason to travel to a warm climate and a chance to reconnect with old friends. While it may still be some of these things (hashtag #LMA2024 in San Diego was that and much more), it is also a golden opportunity to connect with clients, colleagues and business prospects. Yet even attending a program in a sunny climate can cause overload. What programs should I attend? What if there is an emergency back at the office? Will I get to meet the people I want to meet? After comparing notes with a few friends (and living through decades of conferences), I've gathered some practices I find helpful. Please add on some of your own. 📝 Pre conference 💻 Take time to review the program in advance. Plan your schedule to fit in time for programming, seeing colleagues and maybe even seeing a local attraction (aka the seals and sea lions in La Jolla.) You want to prepare to take advantage of the conference's relevant sessions and networking opportunities, but you also want to know when you will have blocks of time to meet with clients and colleagues. 💻 Download the conference app to see who else is attending. This will help you set up meetings, whether you are on the vendor or client side of the equation. 💻 Keep a printed version of the conference agenda, your itinerary/personal schedule, and a version on both on your phone. 📝 At the conference 🌞 Travel as tech-lightly as possible. (I like the iPad mini or just using my phone.) While I always take notes during sessions, I also don't want to kill my back by lugging around too much extra equipment. I also bring a thin notebook to take handwritten notes when that option is easier. 🌞 Attend diverse sessions. Don't limit yourself to sessions directly related to your current role. Explore topics outside your comfort zone to gain new perspectives and insights that could benefit your professional growth. 🌞 Take breaks. I often meet people at conferences who say they are on overload. No wonder! Constantly focusing on a subject matter without any breaks is bound to lead to exhaustion. Take short breaks between sessions to recharge and avoid burnout. 📝Post conference 🏠 Continue to nurture the relationships you've started to build. Follow up with those you've met as soon as you can via email or, even better, a handwritten note. Personalize your messages to show your appreciation and reinforce your discussion. 🏠 Connect with any new contacts on LinkedIn. Follow up on any promises made, and stay engaged in relevant discussions to maintain your network. 🏠 If you are a speaker or panelist, any material you present can usually be used again and re-purposed in several different ways on social media. 🏠 Implement your learnings. Put into practice the ideas and strategies you've learned at the conference. Share these with your team, colleagues or clients to maximize the impact of your experience.

Forget the free food and swag. The real conference ROI? Stronger relationships. Here's how you do it: Was advising a founder headed to her first conference as an entrepreneur rather than just for fun / to hang out. These events can be intimidating and expensive so you want to make the most of your time and energy. Here's a recap of what we discussed: ◾ Know your goal. You are there to advance your business through relationships and new insights / information. Manage your energy, get enough sleep, don't eat too much of the free food if its junk. ◾ Chat everyone up. Your job is to build relationships with new friends and potential collaborators / customers. If you see people you know, great but don't spend all your time with them—use them to meet other folks "Can I join your group at lunch?" ◾ Small talk matters. Start w/ simple questions like "Is this your first time at XYZ Con?" "When did you get in / where did you come in from?" "What are you most hoping to get out of this event?" And be prepared to answer all those q's for yourself! ◾ Be choosy about the talks. Pick a few of the events you really think will be worth your time and ask a public question during the Q&A. It can make an impression for the speakers and also the audience (people will remember you and maybe start up a convo with you later) ◾ Be ready to connect. Have a QR code or link ready to your company / socials / mailing list. You'll completely forget to do this later and seconds matter b/c people get distracted / bored. ◾ Follow up with people. Do it right away so you don't forget who they were—email or social media DM. Remind them of how you met and share a memory or insight or piece of media that can help cement your relationship. Try to set up a call or at least be friendly on social in the DMs or in comments. ◾ All you need is a few good ones. It can feel overwhelming but if you can walk away from a conference with even just 2 strong relationships (which might happen slowly over time) for a conference to be a great investment. These days I don't attend as many conferences unless I'm speaking but early in my career these events helped me connect and deepen relationships with a lot of amazing people. What are your favorite tips when it comes to a conference?

How I Network at a Conference Attending a conference is a fantastic opportunity to learn and network, but most people don’t maximize the networking side of things. I’ve attended and spoken at over 1200 conferences, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to ensure I’m making the most of every event. Here’s how I network at a conference to maximize connections: 1. Plan Ahead: Before the conference, I make a list of people I want to meet. I reach out to them via LinkedIn or email, letting them know I’ll be there and would love to connect. This proactive approach sets the stage for meaningful interactions. I don’t blanket every attendee, I am selective and preset about 3 appointments to meet in person. 2. Be Present During Breaks: During the breaks, happy hours, meals, etc…, I focus on being fully present. It’s tempting to check emails or get lost in social media, but being attentive to the social part of the conference makes for better chances to connect with people in the room. 3. Start the Conversations: I always strike up conversations with new people. I start with simple questions like, “What brought you to this conference?” or “What did you think of the last session?” This helps break the ice and often leads to deeper discussions. Look for people who are standing alone as sometimes they are hoping someone else will break the ice. 4. Follow Up: After meeting someone, I make a note of our conversation and follow up within a few days. A personalized message referencing our discussion goes a long way in building a lasting connection. 5. Leverage Social Media: I share my conference experiences on social media, tagging new contacts and praising the event. This not only amplifies my presence but also keeps the momentum going long after the conference ends. 6. Host a Meet-Up: If possible, I organize a small meet-up or dinner for a few attendees if there is a “dinner on your own” night. It’s a great way to build stronger relationships in a more relaxed setting. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to connect people from different circles. It’s okay to upfront tell people “everyone buys their own dinner”. Pro Tip- make a reservation for eight at a restaurant near the hotel a month in advance so that you have a table reserved at a good time. 7. Be a Resource: I always aim to be a connector. If I meet someone who could benefit from knowing someone else I met, I make the introduction. Being a resource for others strengthens my network and fosters goodwill. 8. Reflect and Act: After the conference, I take time to reflect on what I’ve learned and how I can apply it. I also review my new connections and consider how we can support each other moving forward. Conferences are more than just sessions and speakers; they’re about the people you meet and the relationships you build. By being intentional and proactive, you can transform your conference experience and create a network that supports your personal and professional growth. #networking

I hate to break it to you all, but I’m a fraud…. I am not the extrovert that everyone assumes I am. In fact, the first picture you see is me hiding in the bathroom mentally preparing for a networking event. For those who don’t know, a couple weeks ago it was CBC week. Essentially this means everyone and their mother came to DC. Everyday there were a multitude of events from networking and mixers, to late night parties. Despite what y’all see on here, I am not the most outward person (a faćade I know) To be honest, I normally get anxious when networking. I feel awkward randomly walking up to someone I don’t know and trying to start a conversation. I’m scared it’ll feel forced or I’ll seem too overbearing. However, as a young professional, I’ve made a pact to myself to do things that put me outside of my comfort zone and going to networking events alone is one of them. As daunting as it may seem, once you have a strategy for networking, things seem to work out just fine. So here are some things I do to prepare for networking events: 1️⃣ Review event attendees Most events posted on platforms like Eventbrite and LinkedIn will display who is attending the event. I always try to make it a priority to look into the attendees at least once before the event. As I do this, I note who aligns with my interests or work to remind myself to connect with them at the event. 2️⃣ Make a list of common questions to ask If there’s one thing people like to talk about, it’s themselves. Due to that, I have a running list of questions to ask individuals who I meet. I try to ask a mix of questions that are both personal and professional. Here are some examples: ✨Tell me a little about what you currently do. Is there anything you would change about your current role or industry? ✨Where are you from originally? How did you experience growing up shape who you are today? (side note, if they’re from the area in which you’re networking in them, you could also ask about their favorite local spots) ✨If you weren’t in your current field or role, what do you think you’d be doing instead? 3️⃣ Set goals I have learned that you do not have to network with the entire room to have had a good experience or make your mark. In fact, I would argue that having a few good conversations outweighs having 50 basic ones. Thus, the goals I set for myself are focused on making genuine connections. I normally set the goal of having at least 3 genuine conversations over the course of a 2 hour networking event. So far, I’ve been hitting the mark! 4️⃣ Monitor my social battery I do not believe in forcing ANYTHING. So when it comes to a point when I’m all talked out, I leave. There is no shame in it. There is no blame in it. I encourage you all to do the same. You do not need to make yourself stay in a place in which you are overwhelmed. — What are some ways you prepare for networking events? #tipswithtaylor #networking #genz

While the value of attending conferences is the networking opportunities, meeting strangers in a professional social setting, even as an adult, can lead to anxiety as many professionals are quite shy and introverted in person despite being sociable online—myself included. For my fellow introverts, breaking the ice and networking can seem daunting. Here are a few tips that have helped me: 1. Prepare Conversation Starters: Have a few go-to questions or comments ready, such as "What did you think of the keynote speech?" or "What brings you to this event?" 2. Set Small Goals: Aim to have meaningful conversations with just a few people. Tip: Get a list beforehand of who is attending or research who the speakers are and make it a goal to speak to a few of them. 3. Leverage Breaks: Use coffee breaks and social gatherings to casually introduce yourself to others. Tip: Find your way into an attendee dinner where networking is more relaxed. 4. Find Common Ground: Look for people with similar interests or challenges. This makes starting a conversation easier. 5. Be Yourself: Authenticity goes a long way. People appreciate genuine interactions. Remember, everyone at the conference is there for the same reason – to learn and network. Networking doesn't have to be overwhelming. Most attendees are just as shy as you might feel. With a few strategies, even the shyest among us can make valuable connections. #Networking #InboxExpo2024 #ProfessionalGrowth

Here’s how I make the most of conferences as an introvert who finds these events draining. It all starts with a plan: 1️⃣ Prepare BEFORE you go.   Don’t leave it to chance. Connect with people ahead of time via LinkedIn or the conference app. Target two key groups: conference organizers and conference speakers. They’re often well-connected and great to talk to post-presentation. (Thanks to Craig Davis for the speaker tip in yesterday's post) 2️⃣ Customize your name tag.   Yes, name tags are standard, but why not make yours stand out? Add a note about the type of people you’re looking to meet. For example, mine says, “I’m here to connect with CHROs or HR leaders.” It’s a subtle but effective conversation starter, and in my newsletter this weekend, I'll share why it helps you connect with your target connections. 3️⃣ Ditch the business cards.   Instead, use your LinkedIn QR code! Save it on your phone and make it easy for people to connect with you instantly. No fumbling, no follow-up emails. Just instant connections. 4️⃣ Stand out Wear something unique that sparks curiosity. For example, I’ll be wearing a velvet red jacket at my next conference. It’s a great way to invite people to approach you and start a conversation. If bold fashion isn’t your style, try a standout accessory or a creative add-on to your lanyard. 5️⃣ Follow up post-conference.   This is where the real value lies. Reach out to the connections you made and build on the conversations you started. In the video, I explain why this is such a critical part of conference networking. Conferences don’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of strategy, you can leave with meaningful connections and new opportunities. This Saturday, in 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳 newsletter, I'll be sharing more details about how you can apply these networking strategies at your next in-person event. Not a subscriber? Sign up for FREE when you hit the link under my headline at the top of the post ☝️

Mike Sellers used to do an annual guide to GDC for his students and other first-time goers. I looked all over for it this weekend, but I couldn’t find a link. Like everything Mike did, it was thorough, well written, and insightful. I can’t hope to provide anything nearly as detailed, but my top tips: — Don’t be afraid to walk out of a session if it’s not working for you. I usually stay to the back and outside, just in case. Your time is too valuable to spend not learning or connecting. — The corollary is to always have a backup session in mind. If you bail early enough, you might be able to make another session that’s more useful. — Don’t interrupt a good conversation to go to a session. All of the lectures will be available on the vault. Round tables happen multiple times. If you’re getting value out of the tangential interactions, prioritize those; you can’t make them happen other places. — Reach out to the people around you in the dead times. Don’t interrupt; don’t insert yourself into a conversation; don’t disturb someone who’s trying to focus, but there is plenty of time in lines or in the lobby or waiting for a room to fill to strike up a conversation. — Ask more questions; talk less. Don’t ask for anything. Everyone enjoys being an expert, so ask them about what they do, how they do it, what they’ve learned about it at GDC. If you are curious and undemanding, very, very few people will turn you away. — Always have business cards and a pen. After you talk to someone and do the business card dance, write down what you talked to them about on the card. This will help you to have focused follow ups after the conference. — Do not overindulge. This is a professional event, not a party. Parties tend to be the least valuable time; they are loud; there is often music. Stay alert because there are always people around trying to take advantage of the vulnerable. Look out for each other, and don’t hesitate to tell the bartender if you see anything suspicious. — Have an answer ready for “so, what do you do?” Keep it short; no one needs your life story, but make it clear why you’re there - are you there to learn? To find a job? To hire? To land a publishing deal? Give people an opportunity to connect you. Don’t expect them to have anything for you. — Stay safe. Most people are at GDC to learn and grow, but there have always been incidents. Have a buddy or a group when you go out. Keep track of what’s going on around you. Don’t leave anyone behind. Ask for help if things start going sideways. It’s a sad reality, but you have to be alert. The thing I love about GDC is that it’s the one time every year we get together to help each other. Making games is hard. In most industries, they hide their secrets because it’s the only way to stay competitive. In games, we share ours because it’s the only way to progress. If you’re going this year, I’m flat out jealous. Enjoy the opportunity and be excellent to each other.

It's Day 1 of ADCOLOR Conference and Awards and 12 yrs in, my social anxiety still has me in a chokehold. So for anyone else who gets a little nervous in crowds (🙋🏾♀️), here are some tips that work for me. Add yours in the comments, and if you're here in LA, come find me - we can have snacks, or sit in silence. ✍🏽 Before You Hit the Scene: - Pick your sessions like you pick your battles- strategically and with purpose. Which ones will actually help you level up? Give you something interesting to share with your team? - Have your tagline ready. Not just your job title, but what makes your work special. Trust me, "I help brands be less problematic" is more memorable than "I work in advertising." - Pack your conference survival kit. Water bottle, snacks (because nobody likes you when you're hangry), mints, and whatever else keeps you feeling fresh. Real talk: sometimes you need a minute in the bathroom just to reset, and that's okay! 👋🏽 During the Event: - Find your conference bestie. Maybe it's someone you know, maybe it's someone you just met who's also standing awkwardly by the coffee. Either way, having a wing person makes everything 94% less awkward. (I made that stat up, but you know it's true.) - Quality over quantity, always. Don't pressure yourself to meet everyone. Focus on making 2-3 real connections. The kind where you actually remember what y'all talked about. - Keep that LinkedIn app ready! Quick tip: Take a selfie with your new connection (if they're down) and add it to your connection request later. If your memory is anything like mine, consider taking a pic of their name tag, too! ✌🏽After the Event: - Send those "great connecting with you" notes within 2-3 business days after the event wraps. Reference something specific from your chat. "Loved your take on why The Bear is actually a show about DEI" shows you were listening and opens the door to more convos.  - Organize your new contacts like you organize your playlist - by vibe. Who's inspiration? Who's potential collaboration? Who just felt like good people? - Share your takeaways! Not just the obvious stuff, but what made you think differently? What challenged you? What excited you? Everyone is going to have a take but no one is going to have your take. 👉🏽 Bonus: I always find a home base at events - a specific table, corner, or comfy spot that becomes my landing pad. It's where I can check my texts (or my teeth), decompress, or have meaningful 1:1 conversations away from the crowd. #ADCOLOR2024 #Conference #IntrovertsUnite #Networking

Most people tell you to network, but they don’t teach you how. Here’s what you can do: 🔹 Quality Over Quantity: Before attending, study the event's attendee list and identify 2-3 people you want to meet. This focused approach can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. I’ve recently done this myself at a TED event. 🔹 Adopt a Giving Mindset: Offer to share your expertise or resources. For example, if someone is working on a project you have experience with, volunteer to provide insights or introduce them to someone who can help. This shows you're invested in their success. 🔹 Research Smartly: Look into their recent projects or publications. If your contact has recently published a paper or given a talk, read it and mention specific points you found intriguing or valuable. This demonstrates genuine interest and sets you apart. 🔹 Make the First Move: Send a message acknowledging a challenge they mentioned in a public forum or LinkedIn comment. For example: "Hi [Name], I saw your post about the challenges of remote team management. I've faced similar issues and found that regular virtual coffee breaks helped. Would love to share more if you're interested. Best, [Your Name]" 🔹 Build a Habit: Set a weekly reminder to engage with your network on social media. This could be liking, commenting on, or sharing posts from your contacts. Regular engagement keeps you top of mind and builds a foundation for deeper connections. Tomorrow’s newsletter is packed with actionable insights to turn casual contacts into valuable connections. ➡ Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/eE-aFmFy 💜 Career Well-being is the best work-life newsletter, according to my readers! Join us! #NetworkingTips #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #careerbutterfly #CareerWellbeing