Networking Refresher

As we return to in-person events and conferences it can be an adjustment to connecting in real life. Even for the most extroverted professional, starting new relationships or catching up with old colleagues can be a daunting prospect when you have been out of practice. We want you to have a successful conference and gain skills, information, and most importantly a stronger professional network so we have created a list of five suggestions about how to connect at this year’s Washington State Passport to Careers conference. 

1- Whova

Get a jump start on networking by downloading and exploring the Whova app for this year’s conference. Not only will you be able to preview conference sessions and workshops, but you will also be able to see who is planning to attend. Is there a speaker you really want to meet? Reach out through the app to introduce yourself and consider making arrangements to meet them at breakfast or lunch. 

2- Badge

Your badge is your best in-person tool for networking. First, make sure your name, title, and organization are all correct. Then, consider adding some flair (maybe not 37 pieces) to personalize your badge and act as a conversation starter. It’s easier to strike up a conversation with someone who has something interesting on their badge or lanyard. It’s also easier to remember someone who isn’t wearing the same badge as everyone else.

3-Your Elevator Pitch

Most people have an elevator pitch that they commonly use. Take it a step further by getting prepared to introduce yourself in a sentence or two that describes your role and your specific interests in the conference. In addition, because you will be meeting people from across the state consider including a reference to the geographic area that you serve. 

4- Conversation Starters

Instead of checking your phone as you wait for the session or workshop to start, make use of the time to get to know someone sitting next to you by having some conversation starters ready to go.

“Have you been to this conference before?”
“Why did you decide to come to the conference this year?”
“What made you select this workshop?”
“How are you liking today’s conference content?”

5- Follow Up

There will be lots of formal and informal opportunities throughout the conference to connect and network with professional colleagues. Once you get back home, make a plan to reach out to the people that you met. Follow up with an email or phone call asking about their favorite part of the conference or a topic that came up. Keep the conversation going and keep curious about what they are interested in and working on. 

While conference networking can seem overwhelming, you never know when the connections that you make may turn out to be important for your work or for your career. We hope you have a great conference and look forward to welcoming you in May.