{"id":12722,"date":"2023-09-12T15:11:34","date_gmt":"2023-09-12T19:11:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/progressions.prsa.org\/?p=12722"},"modified":"2023-09-12T15:14:30","modified_gmt":"2023-09-12T19:14:30","slug":"tips-for-effective-conference-networking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/progressions.prsa.org\/index.php\/2023\/09\/12\/tips-for-effective-conference-networking\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips For Effective Conference Networking"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Attending the PRSSA International Conference<\/a> is one of the best steps a public relations\/communications student can take to prepare for their career. I had the opportunity to attend ICON in 2021 and 2022 and, without a doubt, I wouldn\u2019t be where I am today if it weren\u2019t for everything I learned and everyone I met at the Conference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I\u2019m sure we\u2019ve all heard that networking is an essential skill in today\u2019s job market, especially in our industry, since public relations is all about people \u2014 meeting them, talking with them and learning from and about them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

ICON is an event that brings public relations\/communications students and professionals from around the world together, so it\u2019s definitely a unique opportunity to interact with like-minded individuals and build meaningful relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the idea of networking at a large, international conference can certainly seem daunting, but it does not have to be. To help you master the art of building meaningful professional connections and get the most out of PRSSA ICON 2023, I\u2019ve compiled multiple tips on how to network effectively at the Conference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Come Prepared With Clear Goals in Mind<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Think about what you want to accomplish, who you\u2019d like to meet and why. Your networking goals can vary based on your personal and professional needs. Having specific goals in mind will help you prepare effectively and achieve your long-term career goals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For instance, if your networking goal is to gain a mentor, you could attend the Connect With Champions Breakfast on Oct. 15 from 8:45\u201310:30 a.m. where you\u2019ll be able to join Champions for PRSSA<\/a> for a continental breakfast. Or if you are looking for an internship, you might want to prepare to connect with corporations and agencies and share your resume at the PRSSA Career Development Exhibition scheduled for Oct. 16 from 10 a.m.\u2013 12:30 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, don\u2019t forget to download the Whova app before the Conference. Students and Advisers can use the app to begin engaging with registrants, speakers and exhibitors. This is a great way to start making connections early and plan for meet-ups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepare Your Elevator Pitch<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You never know when you need a strong elevator pitch, so a good tip is to prepare it in advance and practice at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Something I always do the day before attending a conference or networking event is stand in front of a mirror and practice delivering my pitch. You also could consider practicing with a family member, friend or mentor. I like to keep my elevator pitch conversational and focused on the value I bring rather than just listing accomplishments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more tips on how to craft the perfect elevator pitch, I suggest that you listen to this<\/a> episode of the Post Grad Cheat Sheet<\/em><\/a> podcast. In this episode, Dr. Maria Elles Scott<\/a>, podcast host and assistant professor at Emerson College, is joined by co-hosts Ananya Dutta<\/a>, Emerson PRSSA president, and Basia Stachurska<\/a>, PRSSA National vice president of brand engagement, to discuss ways to rehearse a \u201cwhy I am great\u201d pitch, when and how to use the pitch, the line between boasting and being your own cheerleader and more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for effective Conference networking. Speak with fellow PRSSA members and professionals that you don\u2019t know. It can be intimidating to approach a bigger group. My tip is to begin by approaching individuals who are standing alone or in small groups. I know this may sound scary but remind yourself that it\u2019s okay to feel nervous and that most people probably feel that way too. We are all there to network and meet new people as well! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have Some Conversation Starters Ready<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Having some conversation starters ready can help you break the ice and feel more confident when initiating your interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some conversation starters you could use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n