With the arts+businessWORKS Career Development Conference happening tomorrow and the Parkland Institute’s Annual Conference just around the corner, we’re resharing our best conference tips from last year to help you make the most out of any conference experience. Attending conferences provides many valuable opportunities including the chance to connect with industry professionals, the opportunity to gain valuable insights, and the time to  learn about and build essential skills. Here’s how to ensure you can thrive in your next conference experience:

1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on social media, newsletters and specialized groups to discover details of upcoming conferences that may interest you. Word of mouth and recommendations from supervisors or professors can also help you stay in the loop.

2. Plan Your Schedule: Review the conference program in advance and pre-register for the sessions or workshops that interest you. Ensure you have the correct information for registration, as some events may require in-person sign-ups or deposits.

3. Networking: Prepare a brief, impactful introduction that highlights your name, school, program, and specific areas of study or research interest. Think of it as your personal "elevator pitch"—a way to introduce yourself confidently and memorably. Remember, networking at conferences is all about building connections, so take the opportunity to engage others by asking thoughtful questions.

4. Stay Flexible: Be open to changing your schedule if you meet someone presenting in a different session that aligns better with your interests. This flexibility can lead to unexpected learning experiences and strengthen new connections.

5. Reflect and Connect: After the conference, take time to reflect on what you learned and the connections you made. Share your experiences with friends, on social media, or take this as an opportunity to reflect in your personal journal. Post conference, don't forget to follow up with new acquaintances through social media, email, or phone to maintain valuable connections. You can even plan a post-conference get-together with fellow attendees for a more relaxed and casual opportunity to network.

Conferences are excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth, and with the right approach, you can make the most of them. For even more great tips on attending conferences check out the YouAlberta article that was the original inspiration for this Tip of the Week!