Cyberbullying | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | extendedReach software
The ever-increasing use of technology connects us to classmates, co-workers, long lost relatives,...
Lectures, seminars, and vendor booths — it’s the most wonderful time of the year, conference season. Whether the conference is an in-person or online event, you should make it a goal to connect with at least one other person attending the conference.
Meeting someone is easy, you can make arrangements to meet the president, but connecting with someone is different. Connection involves building an authentic relationship through being open and honest, and even vulnerable with a person. Meaningful relationships don’t come overnight, but when the proper foundation is laid, building an empathetic and authentic relationship will appear to come naturally. So, what steps can be taken to make a connection at your next conference?
- Be Bold
The first step to connecting is stepping outside of your comfort zone and introducing yourself to someone new. If this feels intimidating, bring a friend or co-worker with you to help support the conversation. Additionally, it’s proven that wearing your favorite (business appropriate) outfit to events boosts your confidence, so throw on your prized ensemble and go say, “hi!”
- Ask Good Questions
Once you are past the introductory questions of what’s your name? and what do you do?, move onto more fun questions to really get to know someone. Just one of these 200+ questions can lead to an enjoyable 15 minute conversation!
- Practice Active Listening
One of the quickest ways for someone to feel discouraged is when they are being interrupted or not feeling heard. Active listening is composed of 6 key skill sets: paying attention, withholding judgment, reflecting, clarifying, summarizing, and sharing.
Need to brush up on your active listening skills? Practice with a friend or family member!
- Offer Assistance
Everyone can use a helping hand every now and then. Ask if there is anything that you can help with and communicate that you are willing and able to help when needed. This shows that you are wanting to give in the relationship, rather than take. You never know when it can come in handy!
- Ask for a Way to Maintain Contact
Asking for a way to keep in touch with a person shows that you are interested in continuing the conversation and developing a deeper relationship. Getting a business card from them can be the easiest way to get their contact information. If you aren’t able to get a card, ask for their phone number or send them a LinkedIn invite with a personal message.
- Stay In Touch
Don’t let your hard work be for nothing! Remember to maintain contact with those that you connect with. Whether that involves sending an email, a message on LinkedIn, a quick text, or a call to check-in on them, staying in touch demonstrates that you care about the individual and value your ever-growing relationship.
Use the tips outlined above; remain genuine and respectful and you will be successful in your networking and relationships — after all, you never know who you’ll meet! Good luck and happy conferencing!
extendedReach powered by KCare is a customizable case management solution designed with social workers in mind – specializing in foster care, adoption, and behavioral health. Equipped with an intuitive interface and powerful workflows, extendedReach by KCare puts time back in the hands of social workers, empowering them to focus on where it is needed most.