Darrel Frater ✝️’s Post

View profile for Darrel Frater ✝️, graphic

Senior Associate at Serac Ventures

Social media is great, but nothing beats in-person interactions. Reflecting on my time at AfroTech, I’ve realized how impactful these conferences can be and why I plan to attend them more often. Here are 5 key takeaways on how to make the most of conferences: 1. Networking is your currency – The most valuable part of any conference is meeting new people and expanding your network. Prioritize building connections as your North Star, and you'll maximize your time at these events. 2. Connections over content – Panels and discussions are great, but similar content is often available online or in recordings. The unique opportunity lies in meeting people you wouldn’t connect with otherwise. 3. Prioritize private events – Smaller, more intimate gatherings provide the best environment for meaningful conversations and deeper connections. 4. Exchange contact information – Don’t let meaningful encounters go to waste. Connect on LinkedIn, exchange emails, or share phone numbers to ensure you can continue the conversation. 5. Your online presence amplifies your offline presence – Social media can significantly enhance your conference experience. You’ll meet familiar faces from your online interactions and strengthen both your online and offline networks. Think about how you can apply these tips at your next conference to get the most value out of your experience. The next major events that I have on my radar are Art Basel (Dec) and SXSW (March). What events are you going to next? Have a blessed day!

Wali Shareef

Pioneering Professional Relationship Management (PRM) | Follow-Up Now Mobile App Founder | AI-Powered Networking

4w

Darrel Frater ✝️ , they say your network is your net worth but the fortune is in the follow up! That's the start to building relationships. Please look me up when you get to Miami, I'll be hitting up Art Basel as well! Safe travels!

Jordan Desbien

CEO|Founder at CLOZ•me | branding expert | french food connoisseur.

4w

I couldn’t agree more with this but let me ask a question: What advice would you give someone who has a strong desire to cultivate those in person connections, but absolutely can’t. For example, someone who moved to a foreign country for personal reasons but is remotely building a startup in his or her home country. How would this person overcome the hurdle of not being able to network, attend events, rub shoulders with and build those personal connections? (This may or may not be completely relevant to my current situation 😅)

Like
Reply
Aaron Jordan

Founder/CEO @Pebble, Founder/CEO @Louisville Juneteenth Festival, Founder/CEO @Hiphouse Festival. Fintech | Strategic Partnerships | Integrated Marketing Communications | Organizational Development | Entertainment

4w

Great advice, was a pleasure (finally) meeting you in person.

Like
Reply
DeAngelo Smith

CEO of Driven | Techstars Powered by JP Morgan| Class 23’

4w

This is so true, in-personal just feel way more authentic.

Joshua Regis

Technical Program Manager / Founder / Automotive Content Creator

4w

Bro I couldn’t agree more

Symphony Lyricist

Founder + Owner of Lotus Flower Om

4w

Darrel Frater ✝️ these are gold! 🌟 Conferences truly hit different when you focus on building authentic connections. Prioritizing private events and keeping online/offline synergy in check is such a game-changer. 👏 SXSW is on my list too—might have to cross paths there! 🛤️✨

Sequoia Blodgett

Co-Founder - Frame Me 🎥 | Get High-Quality Video Content Fast 💨

4w

Agreed on all!

Yes I totally agree

See more comments

To view or add a comment, sign in

Explore topics