This resource is designed to help attendees confidently start conversations at in-person conferences. It includes easy, low-pressure questions that work in different settings—from breakout rooms to hallway chats—to build meaningful connections and practice networking skills.

1. Set Clear Goals

What do you want to achieve at this conference? (Check 2–3 goals)

• Meet 3–5 key individuals in my industry
• Find potential collaborators for a project or partnership
• Learn about new trends or innovations in my field
• Share my expertise or knowledge with others
• Get advice or mentorship from a senior professional
• Other: ______________________________

2. Prepare in Advance

What steps will you take to prepare for the conference?

• Update LinkedIn profile and online presence
• Draft a 30-second self-introduction
• Research attendees, speakers, and exhibitors of interest
• Identify key sessions and events to attend
• Pack business cards or digital contact-sharing tools
• Other preparations: ____________________________

3. Engage Strategically

Which sessions and events will you attend to maximize your networking opportunities?

• Keynote session: ____________________________
• Networking reception: _________________________
• Workshop/Panel: _____________________________
• Roundtable discussion: _______________________
• Other events: _______________________________

How will you approach engaging with others?

• Focus on active listening and curiosity
• Ask open-ended questions about people’s work and interests
• Follow up with people you meet within 24–48 hours
• Other strategies: _____________________________

4. Follow Up

How will you follow up with new connections after the event?

• Send a personalized LinkedIn message
• Send a thank-you email mentioning something specific from your conversation
• Schedule a virtual coffee or meeting to stay in touch
• Share a helpful article or resource relevant to your discussion
• Other follow-up plans: ___________________________

5. Reflect & Apply

After the event, what will you do to make the most of what you learned?

• Reflect on key takeaways from sessions and conversations
• Share insights with colleagues or on social media
• Create an action plan based on new opportunities or collaborations
• Follow up with additional connections after the event
• Other actions: _______________________________

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Conversation Starters for Networking

At a session or keynote:

• “What did you think of that session?”
• “Is this your first time attending this conference?”
• “What drew you to this topic?”
• “I’m looking for a good session on [topic]—have you attended anything great so far?”

At a networking event or casual setting:

• “Hi, I’m [Name]. What brings you to this event?”
• “Tell me a little about your work—what do you love most about what you do?”
• “Have you connected with anyone doing work similar to yours?”
• “What are you hoping to take away from the conference?”

More playful or informal openers:

• “What’s the best thing you’ve learned so far today?”
• “If you could only attend one more session, which would it be?”
• “So… are you Team Coffee or Team Tea for surviving long conference days?”

For first-time conference attendees:

• “Is this your first time attending a professional conference? What are you most curious or excited about?”
• “As a first-time attendee, what’s one thing you’re hoping to learn or experience?”