10 Things To Know Before Attending An Industry Conference

Attending an industry conference is an important way to get ahead in your chosen career. Here's how to make the most of the high level events!

Attending an industry conference is a great way to grow in your career and meet others in your field. It’s also a great way to learn new things and develop professional contacts. However, you will only be successful at these events if you are prepared and organized. Here are a few tips for making the most of your conference experience.

1. Be prepared to network

One of the key benefits of attending an industry conference is meeting like-minded people in your field. These people may lead to job prospects in the future or may have tips for certain situations. If anything, they can be great mentors. Network with panelists and fellow attendees. Get their business cards and give them yours, and follow up once the conference ends.

2. Write down the schedule so you know where you need to be

While some conference schedules are posted the day of the event, most have pre-planned panels and sessions. Make a schedule of the sessions you want to attend. If you are attending with coworkers, divide and conquer so that you can all learn something and exchange notes later. Be sure to schedule some free time, especially if the conference is in a city you have been wanting to explore.

3. If possible, obtain a map of the building or group of buildings you will be in

Showing up late for a session is a sure way to get noticed, and not in a positive way. Being late due to being lost can be prevented. If possible, locate a map of the building or area where the conference is being held so you know where you are going and know where to find food. If maps are not available, ask others for directions or follow signs.

4. Know who will be there and where they will be

If you are attending a journalism conference and want to meet magazine writers, do not sign up for the newspaper session unless your job requires it. Sign up for sessions where people of your goal industry or sector will be so you will have the best chance of rubbing elbows with the people who may lead to a job in the future.

5. Read up on industry news and trends

Be informed of the latest news and trends in your industry before you attend the conference. This will allow you to hold intelligent conversations with those you meet and contribute to discussions at sessions. If you do not prepare, you will come across as not interested in the field, which may prevent people from wanting to connect.

6. Bring the right materials

Be sure to bring phone and laptop chargers, especially if you will be using them extensively throughout the course of the conference. Have your business card on hand to give to those you meet so they know how to contact you. If it is a multi-day event, know what amenities will be available at the hotel so you are prepared.

7. If given an opportunity, do not be afraid to speak your mind

If you have something you would like to contribute to a discussion, do not be afraid to raise your hand and speak your mind. When you are disagreeing, do so respectfully. Some conferences have opportunities for attendees to speak, so if you have a topic you would like to present on, do not hesitate to do so. Meet with those who were at the sessions you were at to continue the conversation.

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8. Complete work tasks before you leave

If you have a job and have to take time off for attending an industry conference, plan your tasks accordingly. This will eliminate the time you will need to split between office tasks and conference sessions. Set an out-of-office email message on your work email and, if desired, include other means of getting in touch with you or another person.

9. Dress to impress comfortably

For most conferences, your best bet is to dress business casual at the minimum. Some conferences may have a dress code, so look into the guidelines if they give a specific dress code. Make sure you are comfortable in whatever you are wearing, as you will likely be in those clothes all day. This is especially true when it comes to footwear.

10. Prepare your elevator pitch

Before you attend the conference, prepare your elevator pitch. This is essentially a short, succinct introduction of who you are, what you are doing, and what your goals for the future are. You will use this to introduce yourself to panelists and other attendees when you are networking with them. Being confident in this will help you meet relevant people in your field.