Here's how you can maximize your networking opportunities at industry conferences and events.

To maximize networking at industry conferences, research key attendees and engage with them on LinkedIn beforehand. Arrive early for informal networking, and attend smaller sessions for meaningful interactions. Don't hesitate to engage in conversations whenever an opportunity arises, whether in line for coffee or entering sessions—you may encounter your next great opportunity unexpectedly. Prepare a concise elevator pitch and carry business cards. Actively listen and show genuine interest. Follow up promptly with personalized messages to reinforce connections. Nurture these relationships through regular, thoughtful communication. Being proactive and prepared enhances your networking success.

Despite planning, it is important that at networking events, interest in someone else only occurs when you are natural and authentic. No matter how great the product or service, it only affects the person involved.

Maximizing networking opportunities at industry conferences and events is crucial for professional growth and building valuable connections. Here's a guide to help you make the most of these opportunities: 1. Set Clear Goals 2. Research Attendees 3. Prepare Elevator Pitch 4. Be Approachable 5. Attend Networking Events 6. Participate in Sessions 7. Utilize Social Media 8. Exchange Contact Information 9. Listen Actively 10. Follow-Up By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your networking opportunities at industry conferences and events, expanding your professional network and opening doors to new opportunities.

1. *Research Attendees and Speakers*: - Review the attendee list and speakers ahead of time. - Identify key individuals or companies you want to connect with. 2. *Set Goals*: - Define what you want to achieve, such as meeting potential clients, collaborators, or mentors. 3. *Prepare Your Pitch*: - Have a clear and concise introduction ready. - Be prepared to talk about your background, interests, and what you’re looking for. 4. *Bring Business Cards*: - Ensure you have plenty of business cards or a digital alternative.

Depending on the person you engage you should try to find 1’ pitch that will resonate with his sector, current problems he may be facing and how your experience could be valuable to him.

In my experience, don’t just elevate your pitch but have ‘an elevator pitch.’ It takes practice and time to refine to develop a 30 second pitch that not only explains the what but also the why. If you can, find something relevant, which resonates to initiate a conversation!

Being energetic and active during seminars and workshop will help one to engage better with key people around. It's important to bring your expertise and experience during session. Be attentive, approacble and lively for people to get connected with you. Engagement is two way process and one should know whom to engage with and how to engage. Fruitful engagement would result in London lasting professional relation with mutual beneficial results. The way we approach would define our intention to engage in meaningful conversation and creating a impact rapot with other participants.

Never forget: Study the event, try to find out more about central themes, learn something about the main speakers. Be intentional, be interesting and not self-serving.

To my mind, it is easy to fall into the trap of using cookie cutter follow ups when you are trying to do follow ups. I feel the success rate with this approach is low. Take your time, refer your note and start with a common experience or a conversation thread to initiate the follow up message. Take time but don’t overthink. Last but not the least, hedge your bets - start with most likely and than move to the least likely follow on messages that will yield connections.

Consider if your knowledge, experience and network can help solve an ongoing challenge, and if so, offer assistance - networking can result in win-win partnerships.

Yes Tarun (Class of 2023!) - Especially when it’s the Graduate Diploma in Social Responsibility and Sustainability @University of St. Michael’s College in the University of Toronto. We miss your smiling face.