Here's how you can network successfully at conferences and industry events for community outreach.

For some, small talk comes easy. But that is not most people. So remember: starting small talk might be hard for the other person, too. Once I realized that others also struggle how to break the ice, how to start a conversation, my own pressure started to ease. No need to be witty, clever or knowledgeable. Just ask whether you can join the table, comment on the food, or share something on how you got there. Once that is done, you connect as humans.

I would add to preparing business cards and having customized personal LinkedIn URL. It happened to me that people were only seeking my URL.

Networking is more than just attending events—it's about active participation. Engage fully in sessions, contribute to discussions, and introduce yourself to new people. Show genuine curiosity in what others are saying and offer your insights. Networking isn't just about collecting business cards; it's about forming meaningful relationships. Ask open-ended questions to start conversations and listen carefully to responses. Your active involvement will make you memorable and help you build lasting connections.

Use breaks wisely: I once met a potential collaborator during a coffee break, and we ended up working together on a project. Approach speakers: I asked a speaker about their research, and we ended up discussing potential applications in my field. Join groups: I joined a group of attendees discussing a topic of interest and made valuable connections. Be respectful of time: I made sure to keep conversations brief and exchanged contact information when the time was right. Be prepared to share information: I shared my contact details with a new contact, and we continued to collaborate after the event.

Following up at latest next day is my suggestion. At events, we meet a lot of people and different faces and we tend to forget with whom we all were communicating.

Conferences often provide job-alike or special interest focused networking opportunities in between or after specific workshops. You may want to review the conference website or check in with conference team members to find out about lunch or meeting break out segments that focus on topics or geographic areas that meet your interest. Connecting with attendees whose interests and geographic location align with yours, can make your networking experience more effective.