How to Make the Most of a Conference

A conference gathers people who share a common interest.

Conferences gather people with a shared interest in a topic or profession. The opportunity to engage like-minded people in conversation often leads to new partnerships. Typically new research is discussed, and innovative ideas are shared among the speakers and attendees. Conferences offer face-to-face time with colleagues and peers. Removed from the daily demands of home and the workplace, conferences allow you to concentrate on personal and professional goals.

Instructions

Plan, Participate, Organize

1. 

   Just as presenters prepare for a conference, you can prepare as an attendee.

   Before the Conference

   1. Register early. There are often "Early Bird" deals. Note any cancellation penalties.

   2. Review organizations from which you would benefit being a member. Likely these organizations' names will appear on your name tag. Having these names on your name tag will generate networking opportunities with your peers.

   3. Considering sharing a room with another attendee, if budget is an issue. Inquire with the organization running the conference to see if there are others interested in doing the same.

   4. If the conference has a hotel affiliated or attached, considering staying there. It may cost more to stay there; if you choose to look elsewhere, be sure to evaluate the additional cost needed to be transported to the location of the conference.

   5. Make business cards. These are integral to use while networking. There are countless websites offering low-cost printing -- or business cards can be made yourself on your own computer.

   6. Set goals. For example, one goal might be to connect with at least five new people who can help you with your career each day.

   7. Spend time researching the conference city.

   8. Consider contacts who you know, or would like to meet, and who may also be attending. Contact them via email message, indicating that you'd like to meet up while there.

   9. Take a look at the conference line-up ahead of time. This will assist in planning your days out, in advance.

2. 

   Pack carefully. You'll want to look professional and feel comfortable.

   Packing

   1. Pack an extra duffel bag. Often conferences and their vendors provide marketing material and promotional products you may want to bring home.

   2. Pack brochures or promotional materials you have that promote you or your purpose.

   3. Bring water bottles, energy snacks (nuts, chocolate).

   4. Wear comfortable shoes.

   4. Highlighter and pens

   5. Small notebook for notes and ideas.

3. 

   Conferences provide new information.

   During the Conference

   1. Skim list of attendees in the program. Highlight those who are important to see.

   2. Inquire about off-site events. They provide a chance to see and learn new things and to socialize with attendees.

   3. Read through the exhibitors list. Identify tables to visit. Introduce yourself.

   4. Wear your name tag and keep it visible.

   5. In sessions, choose your seat strategically. In some sessions you want to be up front to ask questions. In others simply being a spectator may be your goal.

   6. If you have questions during sessions, ask them. If you enjoyed a presentation, thank the speaker and introduce yourself.

   7. Allow a few hours to browse the exhibition hall.

   8. Use your conference tote bag.

   9. Save receipts, in cases of reimbursement or tax-deductions.

4. 

   After the conference, follow-up with people you'd like to know and work with.

   After the Conference

   1. Block off at least half a day to organize ideas and comb through handouts while the event is fresh in your mind. Consider this blocked-off time as part of the conference. Look through and document any pertinent notes.

   2. Write and follow-up, or thank you, emails within a few days of returning home.

   3. Check your pre-conference goals. Did you meet them? Why or why not?

   4. Keep an eye out for a follow-up survey to the conference, likely sent via email. Take a moment to complete it. Feedback is very important to those hosting the conference.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't assume you will get a lot of personal or professional reading done (from home/work). Days are often packed, allowing little time to accomplish items brought from home.

• Try to step out of your comfort zone and meet others, especially if you are attending alone.

References

• Attending an Academic Conference
• Getting the Most from the Conference
• Attending Conferences: Benefits and Techniques

Resources

• Conferences, Workshops and Retreats