Whether you're attending a seminar for a couple of hours or signed up for one of those five-day conferences at a gigantic event center, networking at continuing education conferences has benefits. When you know someone at another company or in a different state who can relate to whatever it is you might need help with, you'll have someone to call if you've made friends at a conference.
Even if you're shy, it's easier than you might think to make the most of your time at continuing education conferences. We've got five easy ways.
1. Sit with People You Don't Know
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It's normal to want to sit with people you know, but choosing to sit with potential new business contacts can lead to powerful connections from other parts of the country with people you would otherwise never meet.
Ask if the seat is taken, introduce yourself, shake hands -- you know the drill. Ask what the person does. People are flattered when others are interested in them. Focusing on others is the secret of success.
Be polite, of course, and talk to your new acquaintance only when the presenters aren't presenting.
2. Exchange Business Cards
Business cards are handy little things. I have a stack of them, and not only do I refer to them almost every day, others in my newsroom often ask me for the contact information on them.
Almost everyone puts a cell phone number and email address on their business cards now, but check. If they're not there, ask for them and write them on the back.
Make sure you've got a stack of cards in your bag when you plan on networking at continuing education conferences.
Take a lead from the Japanese and honor your new business friend by actually looking at his or her card. I've seen many people take a card and throw it in their bag. Bad form.
3. Ask Questions
It may sound simple, but look around. You'll see a lot of people who don't participate -- at all. Ask questions. Ask them during the presentation when they're invited. Ask them of the new friend you sat next to. Ask them during breaks.
If you have a chance to chat with a presenter or a "person of power" during a break, have a question ready.
I'm not suggesting that you be obnoxious, but it's important to participate. You'll get more out of the conference if you put more into it.
Curiosity is the key to learning. Be curious, and then ask.
4. Learn Names
People love the sound of their own name. Remember the new names you've learned, and use them. Not excessively, but when it's appropriate.
I have a terrible time remembering names. I know it can be difficult, but when you remember someone's name, that person feels more important.
Remember, focus on others, remember their names. Get their business cards. Ask a few questions while you're at it.
5. Follow Up
When you get back to the office, whatever kind it might be, follow up on all of the business cards you collected. Call or email, just to say, "It was nice to meet you, Chris. Thanks for answering my question about..."
Be personable. Add a remark about something you found particularly interesting or funny.
You may never hear back from that person, but I would be surprised if you didn't.
Networking at continuing education conferences can be the most important thing that happens to you during the event. I hope you'll learn a few things, but at the very least, you've got 5 ways of making networking powerful.
