What are the most important things to remember when networking at a conference?

Focus on building genuine connections by actively listening, asking insightful questions, and showing genuine interest in others. Be prepared with a concise and compelling introduction that highlights your expertise and will be memorable. Don't forget to exchange contact information and follow up promptly after the event. Also, one thing I found helpful is to try to add value for others (warm intros, exchanging ideas/feedback, advice, etc.). Engage in discussions to showcase your knowledge and contribute to meaningful conversations; it will likely make others remember you. Lastly, maintain a positive and approachable energy, with great communication skills, leaving a lasting impression on your fellow attendees.

“Your resourceful network is your net worth." The more people you know, the more opportunities you have. But “make connections, not relations.” Don't get too emotionally attached to anyone because it is simply time-wasting. Start conversations and pay attention when others talk about themselves. This helps you figure out who you should connect with. Make sure your introduction is interesting and clear about what you want. Keep it simple and focus on making good connections.

In my experience, keep it simple. Remembering names of potential clients, and something about them, helps you create more memorable impression.

Prepare a brief introduction, actively listen, exchange contacts, prioritize quality connections, follow up, attend social events, dress professionally, research attendees, be approachable, and bring essential materials for effective networking at a conference.

A few key areas that i found helpful for me is to have intention, - What are my reasons for networking? - What demographics am i looking to network with? - What are the topics of interest? - How will i show up? - Also what am i willing to contribute/give to receive what i am looking for? Based on the law of compensation.

You have your meet and greet list. Now, be genuinely interested in the people you are connecting with. What are their interests, values and goals? What do they hope to get out of the conference? Practice active listening. Be fully present. Don't think about what you are going to say when they are talking. Notice what you have in common, the similarities that bring you together. Be patient. It takes repeated contacts over time to develop relationships. And, if it feels okay, extend yourself in some way. Offer to help them in a way that feeling meaningful to them based upon what they've shared with you. And relax. Remember that having a healthy sense of humor, laughing & smiling as appropriate is attractive. Enjoy. Be authentic.

Make your agenda clear. The most effective networker approach events with a strategy of well-defined goals and targets. Goals enable you to understand how successful your networking and adjust your networking strategy if necessary. Ask yourself - Why are you networking? Understand the purpose of the conference. Consider the specific focus or goal of the conference and how it aligns with your interests or professional objectives. For example, your networking goals may be dictated by the needs of your business. If business is slow, it's time to hit the conference with a desired outcome of generating new leads for the company. Clearly define what you want to achieve by attending the conference. Then break down your goals into objectives.

Set a goal on the number of contacts you want to make. I don't focus on quantity but quality. Meet people with whom you can make a real connection. I also like to seek out those I already know and solicit their support as well when you're trying to identify someone from a specific industry or company. Make sure your conversation is genuine and focused on them and their business or interests. Lastly, I always try to leave with a next step, which can be in the form of the next networking event, coffee, or a follow-up discussion. Always keep in mind that people make themselves available to those they relate to or find personable.

Put the word out to your network to see who you might already know who is attending - you can intro each other to new contacts. And you have a partner, so you don't have to show up to the networking drinks alone!

Plan before attending an event. Check the list of attendees and identify who you'd like to meet. Read up on their work and organization. Keep sentences short and use everyday language. Use the active voice.

I've always had the best results when I've put in the time months leading up to the event reaching out to the attendees I think I need to get to know. In this scenario, you have something to reference when you do get that face to face at the booth or happy hour. Like anything in sales, success is almost always a result of the work no-one sees and most won't do.

It's always a good idea to do research before attending a conference. Research the topics the speakers will cover, research the speakers and their backgrounds on the internet or LinkedIn, and research some of the attendees. The more research you do, the better prepared you'll be to network when you attend the conference. Networking at a conference can help you advance your career or can help you with your employment search now or in the future. Getting to know like-minded individuals in your field is always beneficial.

Gründliche Recherche vermeidet Zeitverschwendung. Die Teilnehmer können sich auf diejenigen konzentrieren, die für ihre beruflichen Ziele am wichtigsten sind, anstatt wahllos andere zu kontaktieren. Insgesamt ist die Recherche im Vorfeld eines Treffens ein wichtiger Schritt, der sich erheblich auf den Erfolg des Networkings auswirken kann. Sie ermöglicht nicht nur eine gezielte und effiziente Nutzung der Zeit, sondern kann auch dauerhafte berufliche Kontakte schaffen.

Networking at conferences is a valuable opportunity to build professional relationships, gain insights, and foster collaborations. To make the most of this experience, consider the following key aspects, each contributing to successful networking. To be effective while networking at a conference involves setting clear objectives, practicing active listening, crafting a compelling elevator pitch, prioritizing quality over quantity, following up promptly, utilizing social media, attending social events, and projecting approachability. These strategies contribute to building genuine, long-lasting professional relationships that extend beyond the conference setting.

A good research will always help you to engage in a comfortable conversation with the one you want to network with. Sometimes these research acts as a catalyst to build the conversation.

Setting intentional goals is crucial for ensuring strong networking at conferences. You can help make this happen by doing your research beforehand: For Pre-Conference Preparation: Research the conference agenda, speakers, and attendees to identify who you want to connect with. Also, set specific networking goals such as the number of new contacts you want to make, industries or professions you want to target, or specific individuals you want to meet.

Planning and preparation will save you tons of time while you're navigating the conference floor. A few weeks prior dig into who is attending, speaking, and what sessions/events you'd like to attend so you can spend more time growing your network.

Check the attendance list, Post that you are going to the summit, Check on social media who else which will benefit for you coming, Remember that benefit is a long term game, could be that now you can't do business but in the future you can.

Absolutely, being prepared is essential when networking at a conference. Researching the event and attendees beforehand can help you identify valuable connections and conversation topics. Additionally, having practical tools such as business cards, a well-crafted elevator pitch, and a system for organizing contacts can facilitate smooth interactions.

Being prepared is a cornerstone of successful networking, it's essential to approach conferences with a strategic mindset. Equip yourself with the necessary tools – a polished business card, a compelling elevator pitch, and a method to organize contacts. Ensure your body language exudes confidence and approachability. Beyond initial interactions, have a plan for follow-ups, demonstrating your commitment to building lasting connections. In the fast-paced world of technology, being prepared ensures you make the most of every networking opportunity.

Networking is a multifaceted skill set that goes beyond research. Equipping yourself with practical tools and strategies enhances your effectiveness in forging meaningful connections. A professional business card serves as a tangible reminder of your encounter, while a well-crafted elevator pitch succinctly communicates your value proposition. Confident body language exudes professionalism and approachability, fostering positive interactions. Keeping track of contacts ensures follow-up opportunities aren't missed, whether through traditional methods like notebooks or modern solutions like CRM systems. Finally, a proactive follow-up plan demonstrates your commitment and cultivates ongoing relationships, solidifying your network over time.

Stay organized by having your contacts up to date including some business cards to hand out. Have your phone or tablet available for notes and to refer back to your goals. Be dressed for the occasion and feel comfortable so conversing and meeting others is easier and more natural.

Newsflash: most people (regretably) don't like or use biz cards. I'm old school, and we grew up with them, but they really are a pain. Instead, learn how to use the QR code in LinkedIn or a plethora of other tools that capture their contact info, share yours, and, MOST IMPORTANTLY, prompt you as to the topics you discussed and to follow through (a process!) after the conference. Being positive and curious are table stakes. I'd also highly recommend that you look the part - people still judge us by how we carry ourselves, and if you look less than professional, you're not going to leave a lasting positive impression. Timing is of the essence; follow through within three (3) days so you're not forgotten! #RelationshipEconomics

Em caso de utilizar o networking não apenas para autopromoção, mas também para disseminação de suas habilidades e serviços, além do cartão de visitas importante ter um panfleto, um link ou um QRCode que leve os seus contatos a comhecer o produto ou serviço. E que o conteúdo seja colocado de forma objetiva.

Estar preparado é essencial para se alcançar o objetivo, sabendo o que busca com esta oportunidade, possuir cartão físico e virtual( ambos são importantes), ter o endereço do linkedin nos cartões. Atento ao tema da palestra e as oportunidades de conexão que poderá usufruir no networking.

REMEMBER: You can't be everywhere all at once and you can't meet everyone all at once and expect meaningful outcomes. Be intentional and strategic with your time.

Listen Actively: Pay attention to what others are saying and ask thoughtful questions. This demonstrates genuine interest and can lead to more meaningful connections.

One thing I found useful is that, after you have identified your networking goals, it's time to turn your attention towards choosing the right conference, the right sessions and the right people. This is where a lot of networkers go wrong because they neglect the fact that not every conference or every session is the right fit for their business or networking goals. For example, a conference for young start-up founders would be out of sync of your networking goal, if your real goal is to network with seasoned veterans who can help you take your business to the next level. If you're on track you'll know the names of the people you want to meet and the right session to attend before you attend the conference.

It's important to read the room... What I mean by that is if it's lunch time or social hour and you're sitting at a table full of potential prospects... If they don't want to talk business, don't! Use this as an opportunity to get to know them a little better for your follow-up!

Absolutely be selective! Focus on your "Ideal Relationship Profile!" These are people who get you, your unique value-add, and are generally your type of people - my litmus test is, "Would I invite this person to my home for dinner?" At most conferences, you're not going to be able to have a deep, meaningful conversation. Instead, prepare a handful of interesting, engaging, and perhaps even thought-provoking questions. I've long believed that you can convey your credibility through the questions you ask. Depending on their answers, you can ascertain if they're worthy of a follow-through. My goal is always ONE (1) - if I meet just one interesting, insightful, provocative, and relevant person, that event was worth it. #RelationshipEconomics

Saiba qual é o seu objetivo ao construir networking. Ser estratégico, escolhendo as pessoas e a forma de se comunicar com elas, faz você atingir melhores resultados. Selecione os eventos (presenciais ou online) que estejam conectados aos seus objetivos profissionais, a quem você quer ser no futuro.

A conference is by far one of the best sites for networking. However, there is usually a lot happening and there are many people around, so it is best to be selective in order to make the best of it and ensure you are able to reap the benefits of networking strategically. First, determine your purpose (e.g. to build your network, find a new job, find a new mentor); review the agenda ahead to identify speakers and/or any other attendees who may be of interest (at least 2 or 3); be sure to write and practise your elevator pitch so that you can approach them and/or any other key attendees with confidence; strike up a conversation with them, exchange business cards, and be sure to invite them out for a coffee or tea chat. Stay in contact!

Get a tool to scan business cards and send contacts immediately to your CRM. HubSpot can do that. Enrol these contacts into automatic email that will be sent day after to arrange meeting. By automating this process, you can focus on talking to people at the conference.

É importante ser natural e fazer o contato de forma a contribuir para a conversa ser fluída e agradável com aqueles que sejam da sua área de conhecimento, mas isso não pode excluir outras pessoas que mesmo não sendo declaradamente do seu ramo possam, também, agregar ao seu networking. Todos temos algo a acrescentar na vida uns dos outros, no entanto, as abordagens precisam ser simples e simpáticas. Ninguém gosta de ser abordado única e exclusivamente para ser um objeto de troca de informações e oportunidades. Sejamos além de seletivos, humanos e usar do bom-senso e empatia é a melhor opção para ter relações duradouras seja no âmbito profissional ou pessoal.

No matter what.. be you is the only important thing when networking (and in life all the same). Because you can have the best preparation, research, objectives etc... fake will not get you anything. Nothing good anyways. It is super simple yet so often overlooked. I hate to smell greed and sales in my intercations with people. 😉

Almost everyone there is looking to sell, very few if any are looking to buy. Make friends, get to know people, and work on building a relationship. Give first to gain later.

Practice authentic networking, cultivating genuine curiosity and attentiveness towards others. Have the intention of building genuine relationships. Not with the intent to push your agenda. Stand out and be the one who is there to make friends. Focus on giving rather than on getting. Be present, it shows that you're genuine and you care about what they're saying. Listen with the intent to learn more about the person, not with the intent to just reply. Think outside the box. Ask personal questions, for example, ask about their hobbies. Don't just ask what they do for a living. Create emotional relationships, keeping a long term vision for every connection. Once you establish a network comprised of genuine connections, the benefit will come.

Chances are your prospects have already talked to a lot of professionals before they met you. The only way to set apart is by being as genuine as possible. Try to have fun, enjoy the process, and be genuinely curious about people. Your main goal should be to forge a relationships and not just hand over your business card. REMEMBER: behind every sale is always a person (P2P). >> Try to enjoy your time and have fun, and so others will in your presence.

At conferences, remember that your aim is to forge real relationships, not just distribute business cards or self-promote. Focus on truly getting to know people, understanding their reasons for attending, and seeing how you can be of service by connecting them with others. If you encounter someone standing alone, approach them with genuine kindness, making them feel welcomed and included. This approach of prioritizing meaningful interaction over mere transactional exchanges not only enriches your own experience but also leaves a lasting positive impression on those you meet. #uniqueconnector

Authentic and genuine... this is what builds relationships. The approaches or soft introductions, when faked, can have the opposite effect you may have hoped for. That selfish vibe throws up so many red flags that there are underlying intentions and the immediate conversation is merely fluff/filler.

My golden rule is to always remember - "they were all newbies once"! We've all been there, feeling out of place and out of depth, but let's not forget, even Prince Harry felt like a spare at times! So, be natural, don't be afraid to ask questions and allow others to teach you things. Let them have their ego and feel like they know more than you, because one day, you'll be the one with all the knowledge! And trust me, you'll feel amazing when you can take a newbie under your wing and share your expertise. Don't be that person who pretends to know it all when in reality, you're just less experienced. Embrace the learning journey, and who knows, you might just surprise yourself with your newfound knowledge!

Simply looking to just expand your contacts misses the point, show up as your genuine self. Focus on having meaningful conversations, listening fully to learn about attendees’ experiences. Asking thoughtful questions and sharing your own perspectives candidly builds rapport. Rather than moving quickly between people, aim for quality over quantity in interactions. Find shared interests and see where synergies exist for future collaborations.

Nem tudo é trabalho. Pessoas são pessoas, acima de tudo. São pais, irmãos, tios, cônjuges. Não chegue querendo vender ou se promover, chegue de forma genuína e busque conhecer a pessoa. Se é a primeira vez no evento, o que está achando, se está muito cansado (caso fale com ela ao final do dia), se os pés doem (rsrs perrengues de evento presencial!). Reclame da comida que era ruim, qualquer coisa. Gere essa conexão sem o menor interesse. Isso é networking! É construir uma relação muito natural e sem segundas intenções. Os retornos de negócio são pura consequência.

Networking can happen anytime and anywhere. I love conferences! Having worked in the events industry for over 14 years, I have been to conferences big & small, local & global, poor & excellent all over the world. Many events still have not evolved to create experiences that are conducive for 'getting to know' However, I believe that networking is all about you. From the moment you land at the event you are 'ON'. In the lobby at the hotel, at the registration desk, at a coffee break, lunch, awards dinner, bar in the hotel... You have many opportunities to smile, make eye contact and get to know someone. You have to bring the energy and intention to make a human connection.

Don't rely on handing out business cards. More often than not, people won't follow up. Instead, ask for business cards. Ask for their LinkedIn profile. When you have the other person's contact information, the onus is now on you to follow up. As a result, it will be more likely that you'll remain in touch after the event.

If you don't have a seat at the table. MAKE ONE! Find creative ways to get close to others and serve them the best way that you can. This is what has helped a ton in business. The answer is always NO until you ASK. If the persona or business is a bit higher on the food chain, offer to work for free to get advice or time with them. This shows discipline and dedication. Many people just want a free handout. You can stand out this way.

Make eye contact. Smile If the person smiles back, make a comment or give a compliment. Find a common point of interest. Keep the convesation to what connects the two of you. Understand the body language of open and closed groups. Do not intrude on a closed group. Wait for it to open up. Sometimes it's just about the conversation that is going on at them time.

Create a personalized follow-up plan during the event. Instead of collecting as many business cards as possible, focus on having meaningful conversations and jot down specific details about each person you meet. After the conference, use this information to craft personalized follow-up emails or messages that reference your conversation and express genuine interest in continuing the connection.

Always be open for a connection and like Jake mentioned, create your "in". Join open conversations, start one about a great session you sat in on... Jump in with the confidence of a wiener dog in a Petco! You are smart, capable, and have value to add to the table. Make it happen. However, the proactive part is not limited to the conference or event itself. Make sure that you are continuously interacting with those you've "networked" with to make sure you work that net of people you just reeled in.

Part of your goals for a conference should be to step outside of your comfort zone at least once per day. Approach others in a friendly manner, invite them to sit by you. Sit with different people each meal or break, look to diversify the amount of people you speak to. If you are in sales, speak with someone who is in ops... gain perspective.

Have plenty of business cards but hard and digital to share. Don't be afraid to make an introduction with the right dress and attitude.

Be Proactive: Don’t wait for people to approach you. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to others, join group discussions, and participate in networking activities.

Did you ever try to date someone who didn't want to date you? Way too many people outwear their welcome at these events. Be still, look for opportunities to ask an intelligent, thoughtful question, and be as interested in others to be perceived as interesting yourself. If you have fears, doubts, and insecurities, try to go with a colleague or proactively look for others who may have the same trepidations. No - networking is seldom rewarding, fun, or fulfilling - a conference is not an amusement park. Identifying, nurturing, sustaining, and capitalizing on relationships will be those things. And that seldom happens overnight! It takes an investment, starting with the first few steps. #RelationshipEconomics

Everyone wants more - more contacts, more prospects, more customers, more partners, more investors, etc. #CrazyTalk - what if we focused on fewer yet deeper, more meaningful relationships? What if we became so material to their success that they couldn't imagine their work or lives without us? What if, beyond our products or services, we created a defensible moat around our most valuable employees, partners, customers, and investors because of the relationship we nurtured with them? What if we focused on more authenticity in our relationships, less facade when we meet others, more transformational relationships, less transactional contacts, more real relationships, less fake contacts? #RelationshipEconomics

One thing I found useful to reflect is that, while networking events are for finding and nurturing professional relationships, sometimes, it's also where you develop long-lasting friendship. All relationships begin with a genuine human connection. Networking shouldn't be an event. Consider it an ongoing, organic process of building relationships with people you actually like. Make it a lifelong practice of meeting new friends that you can contribute to. Trust and support are the foundations of authentic connections. Honesty will encourage the other person to share their thoughts and feelings as well. People love to talk about themselves, so giving them an opportunity to share their thoughts can help create a bond. Find common ground.

I absolutely love networking at conferences and in my experience when networking at conferences, set specific goals and prepare a succinct self-introduction. Actively listen and engage in conversations, exchanging business cards for follow-up. Promptly reconnect post-conference through email or LinkedIn. Utilize social media for ongoing engagement. Attend diverse sessions to broaden your network. Maintain approachability with open body language and a positive attitude. Respect personal boundaries and time constraints. Focus on building mutually beneficial relationships. Be genuine and authentically you.

When I meet people at conferences, I write notes on the back of their business card so I remember one interesting fact about them for when I connect with them via email. It feels a lot more genuine that way and you build more authentic relationships instead of cold calls/ emails.

Body Language: Your non-verbal cues can say a lot about you. Maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and keep an open posture to convey confidence and approachability. 💪🏼👋🏼👏🏼 Follow Up: After the conference, follow up with the people you’ve met. A quick message recalling your conversation and expressing interest in keeping in touch can go a long way.📪📩✉️

Being genuine might be my number one, but being FAST & EFFECTIVE is also a top priority.You might find yourself emerged in a discussion with an amazing person; don’t forget that you need to find the NEXT amazing person. Connect before you go to the next one (business cards, LinkedIn, etc)! And if you want to hit 2 birds with 1 stone - go for these larger groups of people first. Enjoy!!

If your ultimate goal when attending a conference is connection, then best way to attract "your tribe" is via the stage. Can you secure a slot in the programme to share ideas and insights that will be valuable to the people attending? Seek to serve - and you will find that the people that connect to your message and your mission, will come looking for you.

Networking shouldn't need to feel forced - focus first on meaningful conversations, not handing stacks of business cards. Prioritize asking thoughtful questions and listening to make discerning connections around shared interests. Then follow up purposefully with personalized notes about potential collaborations, relevant resources or intros to others with aligned goals. Consistent quarterly check-ins allow organic relationships to blossom over time. And cordially engage with an eye towards enjoyable interactions - the best connections happen over common passions, memories and laughs. Conference contacts should transition into enriching, long-term affiliations. With the right foundation coming in, they will.

Since all the steps are pretty well covered above. Here’s what I generally do: 1. Make sure that your agenda of going to the conference is clear. 2. Identify the prominent leaders from the industry try to remember their faces. Learn about their work to discuss when meeting in-person. 3. Identify panel discussions of interest. 4. Draft out a strategy to pitch them (if it meets your objective of attending the event) 5. Prepare about yourself before hand, be an active listener during the event, dress appropriately, exchange cards (physical or e-card), send them a LinkedIn request there only (increases the chances of your request turning into a connection). 6. Do not forget to keep in touch post-event too so that they don’t forget you!

When networking at a conference, it's crucial to remember that diversity and inclusion should be at the forefront of your interactions. Embrace different perspectives and cultures, fostering an inclusive environment. Be approachable, actively listen, and ask open-ended questions to engage others. Don't just focus on business; connect on a personal level too. Always follow up promptly and maintain relationships. Networking is about building meaningful connections that go beyond the event.