There isn’t a better way to find like-minded people than at a seminar. These peers can help you learn about different topics that will better your understanding and therefore, your business. Making new connections is key to furthering your career. Knowing how to network at a seminar is crucial. Here are a few tips.
How to Prepare Prior to the Seminar:
- Come ready. Make sure you bring updated business cards. Know your goals—what do you want to get most out of this seminar? Are you looking to find a new job? Do you want to bring in more business for your company? Or do you want to meet people who will deepen your understanding of your craft and keep you updated on trends?
- Make a schedule. Once you know your goals, you can make your schedule. Which people do you need to meet or see present in order to achieve your seminar goals? Who do you want to talk with? Typically, your seminar will have a website that has the schedule and background on the presenters.
If you aren’t sure about what to expect, check our blog post for tips on attending seminars.
Things to do During the Seminar:
- Collect business cards from people you want to stay in touch with. It’s better to network with people who will build your career rather than exchange your card with everyone you meet.
- Listen and ask (meaningful, excellent) questions. Introduce yourself and pay close attention to what the other person is saying to find out if there is any common ground. Remember, building connections takes time and effort.
- Join the conversation on Twitter. Chances are your seminar will have a hashtag. When a presenter says something worth sharing, retweet it. Check the hashtag to see what others are saying. Can you answer someone’s question? Then do so. You might meet people on Twitter that are worth having a bite to eat with while at the seminar.
Things to do After the Seminar:
- Send follow-up emails; find your peers on Twitter. Make notes about people you met, and attach them to the business cards they’ve given you.
- It’s possible that you didn’t get to connect with everyone you wanted to. Send a note to the presenter or panelist and let them know you appreciate their expertise. You can then request additional information if necessary.
It’s important to establish yourself and connect to the people you met or the presenters you listened to. Otherwise, you aren’t getting the most out of the seminar.
Here at Integrated Consulting Group, we specialize in the design, development, and customization of SAP Human Capital Management business software for leading edge North American companies with global reach. Have any questions about SAP? Feel free to contact us via the contact page of our site, or on Twitter or LinkedIn. We’d love to hear from you.