For most of my career, I worked in a customer or community facing role. At one point or another throughout my life, I served US constituents, NY residents, diplomatic delegations from around the world, investors, SASS companies, and marketing agencies. While messaging differs greatly across audiences and channels, there are similar principles across the verticals and aisles: The invaluable memories made during in-person connections.
Conferences and events are a great way to connect with a number of people in a short period of time.
Here are my strategies to form meaningful connections during 1-3 day events:
1. Connect over unique ideas and experiences: For instance, I met someone at the NRF Show who I spoke to about family constellations. There is a connection to remember.
2. Go beyond your wish list and ICP: You know who you are targeting when you attend these packed and busy events. But it can serve you well to go beyond that approach, and keep an open mind about learning from other leaders and shakers.
3. Bring physical or digital business cards: I realize we have many ways to connect with people. Linkedin, being one of the more obvious ones. I, personally, still prefer physical business cards (please don't shame me, I know it is not the most environmentally friendly option), but I haven't found a good alternative that helps me remember to reach out to someone in a similar way that a physical business card does. Digital business cards can be leveraged in a meaningful way too, if you do, please share how, and I'd like to give it a try.
4. Attend side events: There are typically a number of side events that are being hosted by participants and sponsors. Those tend to me much smaller and more private giving you an opportunity to connect 1-on-1 with people.
What are your secrets to networking and conferencing in 2024?
This is from Day 2 National Retail Federation's Big Show in NYC!
#NRF2024
#MondayMotivation
#networking
#conferencing
Vice President Gift/Specialty Channel @Stonewall Kitchen
1moNext Stop the Big ATL. See you soon!