What do you do if you want to connect with industry experts and thought leaders in food manufacturing?

I remember when i was a newbie in the food industry, it was so challenging because i had no one to put me through so what i did was: 1. Attend seminars and conferences (Don't be tired, keep going for the training and network with people, in other word: make friends) 2. Engage and be active on LinkedIn (Participate and connect with people that align with your profession) 3. Seek Mentorship (I remember then, i begged people to be my mentor many declined but one guy came to my aid and teach me, connect me to 70% of what i know today) 4. Join professional bodies to navigate your way to meeting experts in the food industry. Connecting with expert in food industry is like breaking out of a shell, it might be challenging but keep going.

Join industry associations, attend conferences, and participate in networking events. Engage with professionals on social media platforms and industry forums. Seek mentorship opportunities and contribute to relevant discussions. Offer to collaborate on projects or research to build meaningful connections.

Attend key industry trade shows like IBA and Interpack - it's a fantastic investment in expanding your professional network ?? At these events, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, so plan ahead and schedule meetings with partners in advance. Stay curious, not just about familiar topics, but also explore new trends and innovations. Try to predict what will be popular in the future and learn about it to stay ahead.

A fast, easy and efficient way is by utilising the social media, following industry influencers and experts on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Engage with their content and participate in relevant conversations. Use industry-specific hashtags to increase visibility and connect with others in the field.

Attend conferences, trade shows, seminars, and workshops specific to the food manufacturing industry. These events provide excellent opportunities to network with experts, learn about the latest trends and innovations, and forge new professional relationships.

In the contemporary world, I believe that social media communication holds greater significance than physical events. this is due to the rapid pace and widespread accessibility of activities on social media compared to scientific and industrial exhibitions.

There are several benefit in joining sector specific trade associations; - Access to information and sector-specific resources - Access to relevant certification or professional qualifications - Lobbying for interests within the sector - Professional advice - Work experience and job opportunities - Events and networking

Additionally, consider reaching out directly to experts for informational interviews or mentorship opportunities. Subscribing to industry publications can provide valuable insights and connections. Remember to approach these interactions with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to learn from the experiences of others. Building relationships with industry leaders can help you stay current with trends, best practices, and innovations in food manufacturing.

All of the above points will help but active participation in each forum would be the key. More the interaction , more would be the conversion ratio.

Don't connect with them unless they are sustainable, and mutually beneficial.. leave and food system that destroy the earth and life on it.