Making A Good Impression At A Professional Conference.
Networking is a big part of the world of business. One of the best places to network is at a professional conference. Whether you are a professional who one day may be looking for a new position or a vendor who is looking for new clients, conferences provide a good venue for relationship building within your field.
Since conferences provide such a unique opportunity, it is important that you make a good impression to those you interact with. Here are a few tips:
1. Come Prepared With Business Cards.
Having business cards with you won’t necessarily put you ahead of anyone else at the conference (virtually everyone brings them), but not having them available will most certainly put you behind. You want potential clients or employers to be able to contact you. Win them over as you interact, then give them your card so they can get in touch with you.
2. Dress Professionally, Yet Comfortably.
It is very important that you dress to impress, but it is also important that you are comfortable. Many conferences are held in vast convention centers where it is required that you do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and loose fitting clothing.
One way distinguishing yourself is to display your conference id with style. Typically conference personnel pass out lanyards and badge holders at the beginning of the conference. Look into beaded lanyards for badges as a way of standing out among the crowd. Consider designed lanyards and badge holders that will really get the attention of employers or clients. When everyone else has their conference-issued lanyards and badge holders and you are walking around with something difference, others will be sure to notice. Beaded lanyards for badges are usually inexpensive and can be used in the everyday workplace when you return back to work.
3. Keep Mints Handy.
Bad breath can be a major deterrent to successful networking. Since you may not be able to brush your teeth throughout the day, keep mints with you to keep your breath fresh. Avoid gum since it isn’t professional if your potential clients and employers see you chewing throughout the day.
4. Be A Good Listener.
It isn’t just about selling yourself; it is about making quality connections with others in your industry as you network. Listen to the needs of potential clients or employers. When they know you have an interest in what they do or what they need, they will be more receptive to listening to how you may be able to help them. Listen for something you may be able to connect with them about. Connecting on a personal level increases the interest others will show for what you have to offer.
5. Be Positive.
You may be interested in interviewing for a new position, but be positive about the position that you have. You may try to convince potential clients that your product or service is the best value, but resist the urge to slam your competitors. Negativity is a turn-off. Sell yourself (or your product) without tearing down anyone else.
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