Top 9 Tips for Networking at a Conference

Conferences are an exciting place to network. When you attend a conference, you not only get a chance to learn from experts in your field, but there’s also an opportunity to meet new colleagues and form new connections. Here’s a look at nine networking tips to help you succeed at your next conference.

1. Dress to Impress

Before you head out the door, make sure you’re ready to network with the appropriate attire. Think about the attire of your industry. Is custom business casual clothing appropriate, or should you dress up or down even more? The point is to blend in and appear approachable to other people.

2. Be Organic

Instead of immediately pushing you or your company, make an effort to get to know the person you’re networking with first. People like it when you show interest in them instead of just talking about yourself. Ask questions about what they do and what they are passionate about. Even if it isn’t someone you immediately connect with for business, you never know who they may be able to connect you to. So stay friendly and make networking about them first.

3. Make Appointments

A lot of conferences and trade shows require appointments to meet with vendors. These appointments are extremely important, but it’s also essential to remember that these are a bit more structured than an organic encounter. Be strategic with who you choose to set appointments with. Always be prepared with your marketing materials and business card. During conferences, it’s often helpful to store all your materials in a dedicated logo work bag.

4. Know Your Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is marketing 101. Essentially, it’s a quick, 30-second pitch that explains who you are and what your company does to help people. When you think about your elevator pitch, think about the specific problem your work solves. This is an essential tool for meetings at a conference. Sometimes it’s helpful to include a few promotional items with your elevator pitch so people remember your company name.

5. Mingle

Appointments and structure work well at conferences, but it’s essential to set aside time to mingle organically. That can be at a specific networking happy hour, or you can personally set aside time to wander the showroom floor. Either way, making time for organic connections gives you the opportunity to meet other brands in your industry that you may not have thought about. Some of the best business connections are organic ones, so don’t forget to carve time out to network organically.

6. Business Card Ready

We may be tethered to technology, but business cards still represent an essential part of networking. There’s no substitute for a physical business card, and you should never network at a conference without them. Stash business cards everywhere: in your wallet, in your laptop bag, and even in a custom company notebook so you always have them handy.

7. Be Relevant

Attending a conference requires planning ahead due to the wide variety of events to attend. When it comes time to draw up a game plan, focus on attending relevant events and talks. This increases your chances of making other helpful connections. Don’t be afraid to attend an event you’re an expert in. People at those particular talks and seminars are also looking for experts. Switch it up and learn something new, too. Think about your brand’s strategy and market, then plan accordingly.

8. Rep Your Brand

If you’re presenting or you plan to wander the showroom floor, always be sure to rep your brand. Wear swag that shows off your brand’s name like embroidered company work polo shirts or sweaters. Carry around promotional items to give away if you strike up a meaningful conversation. Don’t be pushy, but don’t be shy to support your business either.

9. Follow up

After all that networking and meeting with fellow colleagues, don’t forget to follow up! Always circle back after the event with a personal note. Mention a highlight of your conversation or an idea you discussed. Keep the conversation going for successful networking.

Overall, these nine tips for networking at a conference are designed to give you maximum brand recognition and results. You’ll be able to successfully network at any event and grow your business in the best way possible.