Attending a conference can be enjoyable and rewarding, but if it’s the first visit to such an event, it can be a slightly daunting prospect. However, if you take some time to prepare so that you know what to expect, it can make everything seem easier on the day. You are also likely to get more out of the conference if you plan ahead. Here are some tips.
Research the schedule carefully
Well in advance of the event, study the agenda and plan which talks and workshops you want to attend. This will stop you from feeling overwhelmed on the day, and ensure that you attend the sessions that are most relevant to your interests and career goals.
If you are finding it difficult to decide, delve further into the CVs of the speakers to find out their areas of expertise and background, and prioritise the ones who will bring most value to you.
Look for any further information, such as resources linked to on the conference website, to help you understand more about the context and topic of each session. Ask yourself what you want to achieve from attending the conference, such as broadening your knowledge or learning about new developments in your field, or networking with other professionals.
Understand the venue
While it is unlikely that you will have already visited the venue in person, make sure you know the location and work out travel logistics and local amenities. If the conference is at our venue in Milton Keynes, you will be able to find out detailed information on our website about the various rooms and services available, helping you to feel more confident on the day.
Arrive in good time
Arrive well ahead of time for the sessions you want to attend. Some rooms will fill up quickly and you may find that all the seats are taken if you leave it until the last minute. Arriving early will also mean that you have a chance to collect your thoughts and are ready to listen and absorb the new information.
Dress appropriately
While your attire is far from the most important element of the event, it is important to ensure that you feel comfortable and are dressed appropriately for the climate. Check if there is a dress code, and if you want to network with others, it’s best to present yourself professionally and be neither over or underdressed.
Reach out to other attendees
You may not have advanced networking skills if this is your first event, but make the effort to introduce yourself to some fellow attendees. You may be able to reach out in advance on social media by following event hashtags and discussions, which can make it easier to recognise and approach people with common interests on the day.
Plan some breaks
Your first conference can be a very intense experience, with so much information to take in. Schedule in regular breaks throughout the day, and seek out quiet areas to process and decompress.
