Making the Best Impression at a Conference or Convention

When you attend a conference or convention, set clear goals ahead of time on what you hope to accomplish. Do you want to find new clients, promote a product, look for potential business partners or investors or seek out new job opportunities? What do you hope to learn? Keep these goals in mind when planning your schedule.

Do research into what companies are setting up stalls, who the speakers are and any other notable attendees. Identify which are most likely to help you in your goals and take notes on them. It's important to remember these key points when you get the chance to meet them.

When you introduce yourself, keep it brief but make a strong impression. Make sure to express how your business or career interests relate to them and mention why you admire their work. This is where research comes in handy as you can show a genuine, informed interest that will make you stand out.

If you don't already have a business card, have some made and make sure they're up to date with your latest contact information. When you meet someone, present your business card and they'll usually reciprocate. Keep the cards that you collect together so you don't lose them. These new contacts are vital to building your network.

After the conference, follow up with your new contacts right away. That way, your impression will stay fresh. It also ensures they'll have your contact details in some electronic format and you'll have theirs. Organise your new contacts in a way that's memorable to you so they'll be easy to reach when you have a need for them.