Network Better at Your Next Leadership Conference
by +Kate Schlarf 

Recently many UELA members participated in the Students in Leadership Conference held at the University of Evansville. Many members were nervous about attendance and networking with local professionals. Here are some tips for networking at future events to maximize your conference experience. 

Some UELA members at the Students in
Leadership Conference 

1.  Do Your Homework!

If you know who the keynote speakers or guests will be before the event be sure to research a little bit about them or their company. What has been some recent good news from their company? Are there any industry trends you can learn more about?  Learning more about the speakers gives you more speaking topics than just "Hi my name is...and I study...." It also makes you seem much more knowledgable and relatable that you can as relevant questions about their industry.


2. Smile and Ask Genuine Questions

A smile, though simple, can often be forgotten when on is nervous in networking situations. A smile can make you seem much friendlier and inviting so be sure to flash a genuine smile as you meet people at the conference. Also, when talking avoid forced questions. Only ask questions you truly want an answer to and that are appropriate to the situation.

3.  Exchange Information and Follow Up

Make sure before you leave you get their card and offer your own if you have one. Getting their information allows you to email the person a day or so later to thank them for talking with you (this is also a great way to give them your information if you didn't at the event). This ia also an appropriate time to follow up on any questions you had about the conversation or presentation.