How can HR conferences help you build a strong professional network?

If you work in human resources (HR), you know how important it is to keep up with the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in your field. But you also know that learning from books, blogs, and podcasts is not enough. You need to connect with other HR professionals, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can help you grow your career. That's why attending HR conferences can be a great way to expand your professional network and gain valuable insights. In this article, we'll share some tips on how to make the most of your HR conference experience and how to leverage it for your networking goals.

1 Choose the right conference

Not all HR conferences are created equal. Some are more focused on specific topics, such as talent acquisition, diversity and inclusion, or employee engagement. Others are more general and cover a wide range of HR issues. Depending on your interests, needs, and objectives, you should select the conference that best suits you. Do some research on the agenda, the speakers, the sponsors, and the attendees of the conference you're considering. Look for opportunities to learn from experts, meet potential mentors, partners, or clients, and join relevant discussions and workshops.

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Praharsh Dave
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HR Conferences play a vital role in building a strong professional network by following ways - 1. Connecting with relevant/key professionals from the industry 2. Informal bonding with a professional touch which help to diversify knowledge and industry linkages 3. Exchange of HR professional growth as well as L&D opportunities with HR fraternity 4. Help in building long lasting relationhionships with like-minded individuals

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Archana Vijayan

Business Transformation, HR Advisory & Services, TRAINER - MDP & LDP, Top HR Voice LINKEDIN 2024, Top HR Community Voice LINKEDIN 2023, Mobile / WhatsApp ( 91 86522-99904)
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Greetings, We must invest time every single day in upgrading to be a better version of ourselves. Please do read my articles on similar topics. Conferences, workshops, webinars, related to your function and field is a must to attend. Set a target and you will be happy on your decision. The above not only increases your knowledge but also helps you develop your SOFT and BEHAVIORAL skills. Our Individual Transformation programs covers the process in identifying the right process of NETWORK. Hope these tips help our leaders. Merry Christmas to my LINKEDIN Community, Archana Vijayan 86522-99904

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2 Prepare in advance

Don't wait until the last minute to plan your conference trip. You should start preparing at least a few weeks before the event. To get ready, set your goals for attending the conference and be specific and realistic about them. Make sure your online presence and contact information are up to date, and do some research on who will be speaking, presenting, or exhibiting at the conference. Reach out to the ones that interest you most and start building rapport before the event. Finally, review the conference agenda and prioritize sessions, workshops, or activities that align with your goals and interests. However, make sure to leave some room for flexibility in case something unexpected catches your attention.

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Behnam Mohammadian-Dogaheh

HR Development | Leadership & Talent Development | Soft Skill Trainer & Teacher
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Discovering the most relevant sessions and topics at the HR conference can help you gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections. By preparing a list of questions or topics in advance, you can make the most of your attendance and impress others with your interest in their work. Crafting a clear and concise pitch can help you showcase your skills, achievements, and goals with confidence. With a little bit of preparation and practice, you can make a lasting impression on the speakers and attendees and take your career to the next level.

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3 Be proactive and engaging

Once you're at the conference, don't be shy or passive. You need to make an effort to interact with other attendees, speakers, and exhibitors. Arrive early and stay late to mingle with other participants before and after the sessions. Introduce yourself, ask questions, share opinions, or exchange cards. Participate actively in the sessions by asking questions, making comments, or offering feedback. Join live polls, surveys, or quizzes that some sessions might have. Additionally, don't forget to use the conference hashtag, handle, or app to share your thoughts, insights, or photos from the event; follow, like, comment, or retweet what other attendees are posting in order to increase your visibility, credibility, and engagement. By doing all these things you will be able to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm as well as find out what others are saying or doing at the conference.

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4 Follow up and stay in touch

The conference may be over, but your networking is not. To make the most of your conference experience and turn it into a lasting and rewarding relationship, you need to maintain and nurture the connections you made at the event. Within a day or two after the conference, send a personalized email or message to the people you met and thank them for their time, advice, or conversation. Connect with them on LinkedIn and include a brief note reminding them who you are and how you met. Additionally, don't let your contacts go cold or forget about you; stay in touch with them regularly by sending them useful articles, podcasts, or webinars related to their interests or challenges. Showing interest, providing value, and building trust will help you make the most of your conference experience.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Human Resources

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How can HR conferences help you build a strong professional network?

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3

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1 Choose the right conference

2 Prepare in advance

3 Be proactive and engaging

4 Follow up and stay in touch

5 Here’s what else to consider

Human Resources

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How can HR conferences help you build a strong professional network?

1

2

3

4

5

1 Choose the right conference

2 Prepare in advance

3 Be proactive and engaging

4 Follow up and stay in touch

5 Here’s what else to consider

Human Resources

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