Ed. note: This is the latest in a series providing a comprehensive guide to networking at conferences. Read the previous installment here.
Continuing our exploration in “Conquering Conferences,” let’s dive into the art of transitioning into new conversations.
Just as a dancer gracefully moves from one partner to the next, we’ll discuss how to bring vibrant energy to each new interaction.
Embracing New Conversations
With a smooth goodbye under your belt, it’s time to step into new conversations, keeping the rhythm of networking alive.
This is where the real dance of networking unfolds, in the steps between conversations, as you move across the conference floor, ready to engage, learn, and connect.
Here are some tips to make each new conversation count:
- Scouting the Room: Just like searching for the right dance partner, look around the room for individuals or groups that seem approachable and engaging. Pay attention to body language and facial expressions to gauge openness to new connections.
- The Approach: Approach with confidence but also with humility. A warm smile, a firm handshake, and a friendly introduction can set the stage for a positive interaction. Remember, every new conversation is a fresh start, a new dance.
- Be Curious: Show genuine interest in the people you meet. Ask open-ended questions that invite them to share more about themselves. This is your chance to discover the unique stories and experiences that each person brings to the conference.
- Sharing Your Story: While it’s important to listen, don’t forget to share your own experiences and insights. This exchange of stories is what makes each conversation a rich and fulfilling experience, a dance of words and ideas.
- Mindful Transitions: As you move from one conversation to the next, be mindful of how you transition. If you see someone you know, you can gracefully shift to them, or use natural breaks in conversations to explore other groups.
- The Follow-Up: If a conversation strikes a particular chord with you, make a mental note to follow up. A quick email or LinkedIn message after the conference can turn a brief chat into a lasting connection.
By embracing each new conversation with the same enthusiasm as a dancer embraces a new song, you can transform your conference experience from a series of awkward steps into a graceful and rewarding dance of networking.
Remember, each person you meet has the potential to become a valuable part of your professional network or even a lifelong friend. So, take a deep breath, step onto the dance floor of networking, and let the music guide you to your next great conversation.
In our next article, we’ll reflect on how to celebrate these small steps and manage the natural jitters that come with conference networking.
Embracing New Conversations
✔️ Keep the energy high and move to new interactions seamlessly.
✔️ Stay curious and open, making every conversation an opportunity to learn and connect.
Sejal Patel is the Founder of Sage Ivy, a New York-based consultancy specializing in empowering attorneys with innovative practice development strategies. With over 20 years of experience, Sejal applies her expertise in assisting clients convert their relationships into revenue by applying individualized strategies to their networks and leveraging their unique styles authentically.
