Why do we go to conferences?

If you ask most people you'll probably hear a variety of answers, including:

• Learn more about their niche or industry


• Meet people in person they work or collaborate with remotely


• Make connections that will further their career, their business, or their credibility in their field


• To share with others what they know via being on a panel or a keynote speaker


• Get motivated, re-energized, and inspired

My favorite thing about conferences is getting to meet people face-to-face, feel their energy, and solidify the business and often personal relationships I've established online.  However, it's important not to forget the value of connecting with people whom you've never had contact, either.

Here's how I make the most of conferences when it comes to networking:

• Always keep some business cards on you.  Many people you will interact with will already know how to find you, but some may not.  Your business card should include at a minimum your name, email, phone number, and website.  I suggest adding your Twitter name, your Facebook profile, and your LinkedIn profile as well.


• Don't restrain your excitement at meeting people you admire.  I'm willing to bet you've been waiting weeks to meet your favorite blogger, industry professional, or guru...now that they're right in front of you don't hold back!  (But don't lick their face upon first contact either, a simple handshake will do).


• Make sure you not only give out your business card but make a point to collect them as well.  You never know...the person may end up losing it, giving it to someone else, or putting it through the wash.  Always get their contact information too, especially if you have a fruitful conversation about working together in the future.


• Don't talk shop the whole time.  Conferences are a great way to build relationships too.  When you have strong relationships, you can build an even stronger business.  Trade stories about your kids, talk about what inspires you, and share lessons learned.


• Follow up with the people you meet within a week or two.  Especially if plans are made that require follow-through.  If you leave a conversation with action items, make notes about those next steps on the back of the business card they gave you.  You're going to have tons of conversations and make lots of connections...you don't want to have a "now was that Jane Doe or Jane Dee that wanted to guest post on my blog?" moment.  Right?


• Be a connector.  While it's important to make sure you're connecting with the right people, you want to make sure you're also make introductions for those people that might have synergies of their own.  Get a reputation for connecting people and I promise, you'll become that much more connected.


• Follow up the networking in person with social networking.  Once you've returned home, go through all your business cards and hook up with everyone on the various social networking sites.  More channels=More opportunity for networking and being introduced.

A lot of conferences are like one big party.  Play hard.  But network like crazy too.

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