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Ed. note<\/span>: This is the first article in a series providing a comprehensive guide to networking at conferences.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Ever felt like a conference was a throwback to your high school dance, minus the bad music and questionable fashion choices? <\/span><\/p>\n You’re not alone. It’s a world where everyone’s trying to be the cool kid. <\/span><\/p>\n Imagine stepping into the bustling conference hotel, a hive of activity, where clusters of lawyers resemble old school cliques and not knowing where to begin or what to say<\/span>.<\/span> What do you do?<\/span><\/p>\n Navigating this social labyrinth requires a strategy, especially when it comes to engaging with individuals. It\u2019s about finding that perfect opening line, akin to choosing the right song for a dance. <\/span><\/p>\n Just like in those teenage years, there’s a bit of nervous excitement mixed with the hope of making a connection. You’re not just reaching out to exchange pleasantries; you’re looking to strike a chord, to find that common ground that turns a brief encounter into a meaningful conversation and maybe even a business relationship. <\/span><\/p>\n In the sea of conference networking, one-on-one conversations can be incredibly powerful. They offer a unique opportunity to dive deeper into someone\u2019s world without the distractions of a group setting. Personally, I find these interactions more rewarding.<\/span><\/p>\n For instance, I always look for a personal connection point during these conversations. It could be their alma mater, hometown, or even a shared interest. <\/span><\/p>\n If someone mentions they went to the University of Chicago, I instantly share a snippet of my childhood in Chicago until third grade. This often leads to more personal questions, like “Where did you live after Chicago?” <\/span><\/p>\n Just like that, we\u2019re no longer just exchanging formalities; we\u2019re sharing stories, breaking the ice, and yes, metaphorically dancing!<\/span><\/p>\n Solo Moves at the Networking Dance<\/b><\/p>\n Making the first move in networking, much like in dancing, requires a mix of confidence and tact. <\/span><\/p>\n Each approach is a dance step, an opportunity to initiate a rhythm of conversation. <\/span><\/p>\n Whether you’re a networking novice or a seasoned socializer, these one-on-one encounters are where individual connections begin. <\/span><\/p>\n Here are a few opening lines to consider, each one an invitation to start a new dialogue, a solo dance of sorts, in the bustling ballroom of the conference.<\/span><\/p>\n
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