Tips for Attending Conferences

Deborah S. Ray

Ashley Burton

So you’re planning on attending your first big conference!

What should you do to prepare? What should you expect? And how do you get the most out of the experience?

Determine Your Goals

Well.. What do you want to gain from the conference?

Are you looking to gain new knowledge in specific topic areas? Are you looking to gain as much new information as possible? Are you primarily attending to network with new people? Are you looking to find a new job or investigate relevant services? All of the above?

With those goals in mind, use these tips!

Tip #1: Consider the session format

Consider the session format when choosing sessions to attend. Conferences typically offer a variety of session formats--such as presentations, workshops, demonstrations, and progressions (where you participate in "round-table" discussions)--that each require different levels of attendee participation. Examine the types of sessions at the conference, and choose ones that suit your preferences and needs.

Tip #2: Do your homework!

Find out what prerequisite knowledge you need for each session, and do your homework ahead of time, if necessary. You will get more out of a session if you have the knowledge base expected, rather than trying to catch up during the session itself.

Tip #3: Plan ahead of time

Plan which sessions you want to attend ahead of time, and have multiple backup sessions in mind in case ones you want to attend are full or canceled.

Also, be sure to reevaluate your plan when you get to the conference. Sometimes sessions and speakers may change between the preliminary program and the final program, which may affect which sessions you choose to attend.

Tip #4: Prioritize

Prioritize sessions and activities, as you likely won't be able to do everything you hope to do. If necessary, plan breaks or a lighter schedule prior to key sessions or activities to ensure you are adequately fresh for them.

Tip #5: Diversify

Plan a balance of sessions and other scheduled activities that suits your needs. In addition to attending sessions, for example, you may want to attend luncheons and banquets, or find extra time to visit with vendors at the exhibition area.

Tip #6: Plan your travel time

Plan your travel days carefully. For example, you may not want to arrive or depart on days that you also plan to attend sessions or activities.

Tip #7: Have some packing room

Allow room in your luggage for the materials you collect during the conference. Alternatively, you might plan to have conference materials mailed back; conferences often arrange for shipping services on site.

Tip #8: Know your hotel stats

Know in advance where your hotel accommodations are in relation to the conference, and plan adequate time to get to conference sessions and activities.

Tip #9: Wear Comfortable Shoes

Period

Tip #10: Bring Business cards

Lots of business cards. And don't be afraid to exchange cards with people you meet.

Tip: If you exchange business cards with someone with the promise to send that person information, be sure to write the details on the back of the card when you receive it. By doing so, you can be sure to remember the specifics of each exchange and promise after you return from the conference.

Tip #11: To be early is to be on time!

Arrive at the session rooms as early as possible. Sessions fill up quickly, and you'll want to arrive early to help ensure you can attend the sessions you want.

Tip #12: Talk to People!

Take every opportunity to talk with people--all sorts of people, including attendees, presenters, conference coordinators, exhibit vendors, and so on. In addition to networking, you can learn as much (or more) outside of conference sessions as you can in the sessions.

Tip #13: Schedule some “you” time

Schedule time for yourself. Attending sessions, networking, and just being "on" all day can be exhausting. Schedule time for yourself to absorb what you've learned, organize your thoughts, re-energize, and prepare for the next session, activity, or day.

Tip #14: Enjoy the host city!

Enjoy the host city. Conference packets usually highlight what's close by and easy to attend. You might also ask the hotel staff for other ideas and brochures.

Conclusion

Remember these helpful tips and always remember what you want to get out of attending the conference!

Questions?