Article Contributed by Rob Stretch
Well attended conferences, such as the ongoing South by Southwest Interactive events in Austin, are excellent opportunities to network. But going to a conference unprepared might have you leaving without fresh digits in your phone or crisp business cards in your rolodex.
Getting ready to network is simple. Here are a few tips to prepare for the conference:
- Meet and greet – When you meet people, keep it short and sweet. Of course, include your name and what you do, but make sure you emphasize why you’re at the conference.
- Cards are still hip – Business cards are great branding tools. Even in the digital age, handing out cards give industry colleagues a tangible way to remember you. Keep them in a safe but accessible place at all times.
- Learn something – There’s no point attending a conference and skipping every session. Peruse the conference’s schedule and circle all the workshops and lectures that pique your interest. Be prepared to watch, listen and ask questions at the few sessions you attend.
Great, now you’re eager and ready to meet people, but the conference is packed. Follow these guidelines and you’re sure to meet people with whom you can develop a symbiotic relationship:
- Focus on individuals – Not all conferences are long, and even when they are, meeting everybody there is useless. Narrow your introductions to individuals rather than groups. Go out of your way to meet speakers, competitors and conference organizers. Always think quality over quantity.
- Make meals social – When possible, eat whatever the conference provides rather than dining with pals. Sit with strangers and engage in conversation. Should you meet somebody worth the time, take them out to eat and talk about more than business. It’s OK to get a little personal. When the bill comes, pay for it (after all, it’s a business expense).
- Stay young – So after parties at conferences aren’t the same as your 21st birthday, but they’re still worth attending. Talk to people in quieter spots, offer to buy drinks and chat. Don’t cajole information out of people, despite their blood alcohol, and don’t gossip about everything you see and hear. This isn’t college.
With the conference over, a stack of fresh business cards and regret from only two Jack and Cokes from the last after-after party, what’s left to do? Follow up with everybody you met. The key to a successful relationship is communication, so be the first to initiate it. Otherwise you’ll get nothing out of all those smooth introductions and card exchanges. If somebody doesn’t respond, don’t bombard them with calls and e-mails.
About the Author
Rob Stretch is currently a marketing student at the University of Missouri. Professionally, he primarily markets financial services for competitive niches. Right now, he focuses on VA loans.