As a healthcare professional straddling the worlds of nursing research and freelance writing (and still learning the ins and outs of both) my calendar this year has been filled with virtual seminars and conferences. This is a change from last year when I was galavanting around the country attending every in-person conference I could afford to fit into my schedule.
The virtual conferences have been eye-opening. These digital gatherings have allowed me to maintain and expand my professional network from the comfort of my home and have offered additional knowledge in the continuously-evolving landscapes of healthcare and entrepreneurship. Attending the few virtual conferences that I have thus far this year has opened new doors to learning, collaboration, and networking opportunities that were once constrained by geographical barriers.
Navigating the shift to virtual conferences has been a unique challenge, particularly for those in fields where personal interaction and hands-on experiences are most familiar. As a nurse writer I've encountered the dual challenge of staying connected with my professional community while managing the screen fatigue that became all too familiar during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. This blog will highlight how you can get the most out of these virtual gatherings through networking.
Utilize the Conference App or Website: Many virtual conferences have dedicated apps or websites with features for networking. These platforms often include attendee lists, chat functionalities, and forums. Take advantage of these tools to connect with other participants before, during, and after the conference. Create a user profile and introduce yourself whenever there is an opportunity to do so.
Attend Virtual Networking Events: Look for scheduled networking events within the conference agenda, such as virtual coffee breaks, breakout sessions, or happy hours. These are great opportunities to meet other attendees in a more relaxed setting. These sessions often have fewer participants, which allows for better opportunities to make connections. Also, often times the speakers of these conferences attend these sessions, so you may have more of an opportunity to connect with them.
Participate Actively in Sessions: Engage with the content by asking questions and providing comments during sessions. This can make you more visible to both the speakers and other attendees, opening up the potential for further conversation. It’s not uncommon to receive a connection request on platforms like LinkedIn or a message through the conference app from people who want to connect with you after reading your engaging posts.
Use Social Media: Many virtual conferences have hashtags or social media groups. Post about the conference on your social media accounts using the event’s hashtag(s). This can help you connect with other attendees and continue conversations outside the conference platform.
Schedule One-on-One Meetings: If the conference platform allows it, schedule one-on-one meetings with other attendees, speakers, or exhibitors who you are interested in connecting with. These can be more intimate and productive than group interactions. Many speakers who present virtually understand they too have something to benefit from by dropping their email information in the chat box. Take the opportunity to connect with them in this manner.
Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash
In Summary
In today's digital age, virtual conferences have become a cornerstone for professional networking. To maximize these opportunities, it's important to approach virtual seminars and conferences with both strategy and authenticity. Start by updating your LinkedIn profile and signaling your participation to leverage the platform's vast network. During the conference, be proactive in making new connections and follow up promptly with a personalized message or email, and highlight specific details from your interaction to ensure you remain memorable. Share your own experiences, advice, or resources generously. Offering value is critical when building reciprocal relationships. By incorporating these strategies, you can turn virtual conferences into a fertile ground for professional growth and networking.
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