Discover Your Ultimate Guide to Navigating Conferences
Receiving an email prompting you to download the “forum-networking app” to kickstart “building new connections” before the upcoming “knowledge-sharing experience” serves as a reminder of an event you may have overlooked: a conference. Whether you are a paediatric nephrologist engaging in discussions about the latest advancements in children’s dialysis, an entrepreneur seeking potential investors, or a keynote speaker, you may feel prepared. However, if you find yourself unsure of your purpose at the conference, much like the occasional attendee Bartleby, it’s time to devise a plan.
To begin, set realistic expectations: terms like “convention”, “summit”, “event”, “roadshow”, and “festival” may sound exciting, but remember, you are attending a conference, not a music festival. While there’s no need for formal attire, opt for comfortable clothing without resembling a golf enthusiast from the Midwest. You never know who you might encounter.
Furthermore, understand that icebreakers are merely a tactic. If prompted to doodle on your name tag or use a humorous alias, politely decline. Likewise, if asked to divulge a secret, proceed with caution. Refrain from sharing awkward personal details or making boastful claims. Strive to be unobtrusive and unremarkable to avoid unnecessary attention. Being forgettable can be advantageous.
2024-07-04 04:31:12
Content retrieved from www.economist.com