Balancing learning and networking at conferences is crucial. At a recent industry summit, I prepared by researching attendees and scheduling strategic meet-ups via the event app, prioritizing key players. By doing so, I had meaningful conversations that led to a partnership opportunity, without missing essential sessions. My tip: carve out focused time for both networking and learning, even if it means stepping out between sessions to connect briefly with potential partners. This keeps your engagement impactful and time well-spent.

There is no secret formula for choosing sessions or networking, as we each have different needs. Only you know what your perfect balance is and also what will most benefit you. Personally, I usually benefit most from the casual conversations and networking opportunities. So I carve out time for those 'must-do' plenary and break-out sessions on topics that I really want to build in my knowledge base, and focus the rest of the time on networking. That is not to suggest that every session doesn't have value, but rather that certain topics may hold more significance at a certain point in time. Keep in mind, some of the people you want to network with may be headed to those breakouts and you don't want to hold them back. ;-)

It's always a tough choice at conferences: immerse yourself in sessions or maximize networking time. I find being strategic is key. I pre-plan which sessions are absolute musts, and then I use the conference app to schedule quick coffee chats around those. That way, I get the knowledge and build connections with people who share my interests.

To balance attending conference sessions and networking, set clear goals, prioritize high-value activities, and plan your schedule in advance. Identify must-attend sessions that align with your objectives while reserving time for networking during breaks or designated events. Combine both by engaging with attendees during sessions or Q&As, and stay flexible to seize unexpected opportunities. Focus on quality over quantity in networking, connecting with key individuals relevant to your goals. Post-conference, follow up with contacts and review session materials to maximize the value gained from both activities.

Konferenz-Balance? Mein Motto: Weniger Marathon, mehr Sprint. Ich picke mir gezielt die Sessions, die wirklich Mehrwert bieten, und investiere den Rest der Zeit ins Networking – dort, wo die Magie passiert. Lieber ein ehrliches Gespräch beim Kaffee als 20 oberflächliche Handshakes. Die Konferenz-App? Mein geheimer Joker, um smarte Treffen und spannende Panels unter einen Hut zu bringen. Wie behalten Sie den Überblick zwischen Wissen und Beziehungen?

One thing I’ve found usefull, is to get on the program as a speaker as early in the program as possible, and then make yourself available as much as possible. Then - I have found - people with a specific interest in your topic/passion will gravitate toward you, and you will not only have a lot of networking, you will also get to know new people and your conversations will most likely start with something you’re passionate about. I know that this sounds weird, but some of my best conference experiences have been at conferences where I have hardly attended any sessions… Rather I’ve been hanging out with interesting people at the concerence venue, and even better at cafés and bars nearby…😳😃

Conferences are chaos. You’re stuck choosing between sessions packed with insights and networking that could change everything 🎯 Here’s the trick: prioritize. Hit the sessions that light you up. Skip the fluff. Use breaks to meet people. Cafés and hallways are goldmines for connections 🤝 Don’t overpack your schedule. You’re human, not a machine. Leave room to breathe, think, and be. Trust your instincts to pick the right mix. Knowledge fades; relationships stick. Get both, but don’t burn out trying. Conferences aren’t marathons. They’re pit stops for growth 🚀

Unpopular opinion: most conference session material has been shared before (a quick online search can reveal what's truly NEWLY released and what's just repurposed). So, I usually put my emphasis on the networking and attend the super new sessions.

There is no such a balance. It is always a decision on what you want to learn and what to obtain. Know what you need or know what you want and then spend time and effort accordingly.