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In case you haven’t heard, business travel is back—and just in time for conference season! We’ve found you get out what you put into these kinds of events, so if you’re looking to connect with peers, gain a new perspective, or learn from the experts at a conference of any kind this year, here are our top tips to set yourself up for success.
Pack with a purpose
Success starts with the right suitcase! In addition to your usual business casual wear, you may want to bring comfortable shoes, plenty of snacks, and a reusable water bottle so you can enjoy those long days. Don’t forget a pen and paper for notes, and business cards for networking purposes.
Get to networking
Speaking of networking, conferences are one of the best ways to connect with industry professionals from across the nation. Plus, after more than a year of primarily networking online, many home finance professionals are eager to connect in person this conference season.
In addition to practicing your usual conversation starters beforehand, if the conference is being held at a hotel, consider reserving a room there. The elevators, breakfast buffet, and pool area all offer plenty of opportunities for small talk. You could also connect with other conference-goers via social media by using the event’s branded hashtags and giving the organizers a follow. Finally, make a point to attend scheduled dinners, parties, and other social events, and don’t let coffee breaks throughout the day go to waste! Before you know it, you could have a long list of new contacts.
Make the most of each session
When planning your days, be sure to choose sessions strategically. Review the synopsis, research guest speakers, and evaluate your personal and professional goals before committing. Are you looking to learn a new skill or demo cutting-edge technology? Do you learn best from a panel of experts or a single speaker? Whatever your preferences, weigh the pros and cons of each session before committing. After all, your time is precious. You’ll want to make the most of each and every opportunity.
Once you’ve settled into the right sessions, don’t forget to take notes. Jot down any new names and contact information, anything that resonates, and relevant actions items. Then, after each session, reflect on and summarize your most important takeaways. Ensure each page of your notes is dated and well-organized, so that referring back will be stress-free. Follow the speaker(s) on social media — many experts regularly post about their topics, so it’s a great way to get more information on something you’re interested in!
You may also want to put your phone away during presentations. Work emails, loud phone calls, and social media breaks can all disrupt your focus and even distract other attendees. That text will still be there after the session!
Don’t forget to follow-up
Once you’ve settled in back at home, review your notes and carve out some time to follow-up with any new contacts. Depending on the relationship, a LinkedIn connection, quick email, or friendly phone call should suffice.
Be sure to stay in touch moving forward! Like or comment on social media posts they share, send articles and publications you think they might enjoy, and stay up to date on their professional accomplishments. Eventually, they may become a fixture of your network and a friendly face at next year’s conference!
Set yourself up for success
Whether you’re looking to expand your network or learn from the experts, conferences offer a unique opportunity to grow. With a well-packed suitcase, networking know-how, in-session strategy, and follow-up protocol, you are well on your way to setting yourself up for success this conference season.
