How To Make a Attending a Conference Go Smoothly

Conferences – big scary meetings, with far too much information thrown into the ether all at one time. So how do you make it easy, so you not only survive the day without a major headache, but you also glean all the information you need? Also on the flip side, if you’re the one doing the presenting, how do you keep everything ticking along, without major drama?

Arrive early!

Why not make it into a long weekend and book a hotel for the time you’re there? Mixing some relaxation time with work never goes amiss, and this way you’ll arrive for the conference fresh and ready, without being shattered from early morning travel, with bags under your eyes bigger than those you’re carrying. Image is everything in this game.

Preparation is key

Get as much information about speakers beforehand, print out the information pack, if you’re given one, and find out as much as possible about who is going. Knowledge is power, people!

Be nosey beforehand

Find out the layout of the conference in good time, e.g. what form it will take, will it be workshops? Will it be speakers? Will there be demonstrations? Finding such information out will mean no surprises and you’re more able to get exactly what you need out of each day.

Network, network, network!

These events are hugely important for creating contacts, both now and in the future. Have a little introduction of yourself prepared and don’t be afraid to approach people. Have some business cards at the ready to hand out, and get networking yourself into oblivion. Sell yourself!

Ask questions

Your preparation should have highlighted a few areas you might like to know more about, so in that case, ask questions. If you don’t feel able to do this in front of a large collection of people, approach the speakers afterwards, if you’re able, and ask for a few minutes of their time. Chat with other conference attendees before and between sessions as you will pick up further insights.

Grab the freebies

No, I’m not talking free pens, although they always come in handy! I’m talking about any information packs and leaflets you can get your hands on – take it all away with you and digest it in comfort, away from the pressure or busy atmosphere you’re in.

Doing the talking?

If you’re due to give a talk, prepare until you can prepare no more. Take handouts to reinforce your points, and visual aids to keep it all fresh.

Review the day

Your conference isn’t an excuse to go out of the office for a day on a jolly, so make sure you take plentiful notes during your time, gain as much information as possible, and then review it as soon as you return to the office, whilst it’s still fresh in your mind. You may be asked to present back to your colleagues, so writing it down whilst you can still remember the finer details is a good idea. Teaching others what you learnt is a great way of reinforcing the take-home messages for yourself. This is also a fantastic opportunity to show off to your boss!

The main key to keeping a conference day on the smooth side is confidence and preparation. Remain calm and you’ll get everything you need from the day.

photo credit: Jeffrey Creative commons