19 Practical Networking Tips for Your Next Conference

Academic conferences provide multiple opportunities for researchers. They are a chance to learn about new work being done in your field, they offer a platform to present your work and gather feedback, and they allow you to meet and network with other researchers. In addition, one of these people could one day become a research partner, colleague, funder, or employer.

These events allow you to:

• Discover the latest developments in your field.
• Present your research and receive valuable feedback.
• Build connections with peers, potential collaborators, funders, or employers.

Networking at these events can be transformative, especially for early-career researchers. However, it can also feel intimidating. With the right approach, you can turn these opportunities into meaningful, long-term professional relationships.

Here are our top tips to help you master networking at academic conferences.

Networking Before and After the Event

Tip 1: Define your networking goals

Before the event, ask yourself: What am I hoping to achieve by networking here?

• Do you want to build recognition in your field?
• Are you seeking feedback on your current research?
• Are you looking for collaborators or funders?
• Are you exploring career opportunities?

Clear goals will guide your strategy, from the sessions you attend to the people you approach.

Tip 2: Network Online Using the Event Hashtag

Many conferences use custom hashtags to foster online discussions. Leverage this tool to start networking early:

• Share engaging, relevant content using the hashtag.
• Interact with other attendees' posts to spark conversations.
• Build recognition for your name and research.

This online presence lays the groundwork for connections before you even step into the event.

Tip 3: Stay at the Recommended Hotel

If you’re traveling, opt for the hotel suggested by the conference organizers. This becomes a hub for attendees, creating networking opportunities in shared spaces like the lobby or elevator.

Many informal discussions and social events also occur at the recommended hotel, making it a strategic choice.

Tip 4: Research Other Attendees

Check the conference website for a list of registered participants. Identify individuals whose work aligns with your interests or goals.

• Make a list of people you’d like to meet.
• Learn about their research, background, and affiliations.
• Use this knowledge to personalize your conversations and maximize your chances of meaningful interactions.

Tip 5: Reach Out Before the Event

If you identify someone whose work you admire, don’t hesitate to contact them ahead of time. A brief, professional email or message can help you set up a meeting.

Example: “Hi [Name], I’m attending [Conference Name] and have followed your work on [specific topic]. Would you be open to meeting for coffee to discuss your research?”

Most academics are happy to connect, and this proactive approach sets the stage for a productive conversation.

Tip 6: Plan Your Schedule Strategically

Balance your time between attending presentations and networking opportunities. Prioritize sessions where you can connect with people on your list or engage in discussions relevant to your goals. Additionally, having an organized schedule is key to maximizing your time. Explore our Conference Planning Checklist to help structure your event or participation effectively.

• Leave space in your schedule for informal networking.
• Attend presentations by keynote speakers or researchers you’d like to meet—it’s a natural conversation starter.

Tip 7: Prepare an Elevator Pitch

Your elevator pitch—a 30-second summary of who you are, your research, and your goals—is a networking essential. Practice until it feels natural. Here are some helpful templates you can use to create your elevator pitch. 

A concise and compelling pitch ensures you make a strong first impression, even in brief interactions.

Tip 8: Have Conversation Starters Ready

Nerves can make starting conversations challenging. Prepare a few openers:

• “What did you think of the keynote presentation?”
• “I noticed you’re researching [topic]—what inspired your work?”
• “Have you attended this conference before?”

These simple prompts can help you ease into discussions and achieve your networking goals.

Tip 9: Follow Up After the Event

Keep track of the connections you make. After the conference:

• Send personalized follow-up emails or messages.
• Reference specific points from your conversation to make your outreach meaningful.
• Stay connected on platforms like LinkedIn to nurture relationships over time.

Networking During the Event

Tip 10: Introduce Yourself to New People

Step outside your comfort zone and initiate conversations with people you don’t know. Start with a smile, a handshake, and your elevator pitch.

Tip 11: Attend Social Events

Social events like dinners, tours, or happy hours provide a relaxed environment for networking. Attend as many as possible to deepen connections beyond formal sessions.

Tip 12: Wear Your Badge

Your conference participant package will most likely include an identification badge. This includes basic information about yourself: your name, your organization, and often your area of research. Your conference badge helps others recognize you, especially if they’ve seen your name online. Keep it visible to facilitate introductions and connections.

Tip 13: Engage in Poster Sessions and Panels

Poster sessions and panel discussions are interactive, making them perfect for networking. Use these opportunities to:

• Learn about others’ research.
• Ask thoughtful questions.
• Start conversations with presenters and attendees.

Tip 14: Ask Questions During Q&A Sessions

Asking a well-thought-out question during a presentation not only showcases your interest but also introduces you to the room. This visibility can lead to post-session conversations.

Tip 15: Remember Names

Repeat people’s names during introductions to help you remember them. For example: “Nice to meet you, Jennifer.” It has been scientifically proven that repeating things out loud helps you remember them, so when a person says something like “Hello, I’m Jennifer,” replying with “Nice to meet you Jennifer,” can really help you remember the contact’s name down the road. 

Tip 16: Stay Calm and Confident

Networking can be overwhelming, but remember: everyone at the conference was once in your shoes. Approach conversations with confidence, stay professional, and maintain composure.

Tip 17: Exit Conversations Gracefully

Just like you prepared conversation starters and an elevator pitch to get discussions started, being ready with natural conversation caps to end them gracefully is another way of maximizing the value of your networking opportunities. 
Be polite and clear:

• “It’s been great speaking with you. I’d love to continue this conversation later.”
• “Thank you for your time—I’m looking forward to following up.”

Tip 18: ...And Ask to Keep in Touch

One of the most graceful ways to end a conversation is to ask about the next steps. Does this person want to connect again at a later date? Perhaps the conversation can be more impactful if it is followed-up when the research being discussed is complete? Setting an expectation around when you will reconnect with the person you’re networking with creates an easy-out of the current conversation while giving you an idea of where that connection could lead. 

Tip 19: Leverage the Conference App

Conference apps often include features to connect with other attendees. Use the app to:

• Arrange meetings.
• Share your contact details.
• Participate in discussion boards or group chats.

Conclusion

Networking at academic conferences is about creating meaningful connections and nurturing them over time. With preparation, confidence, and the tips outlined here, you can turn these events into stepping stones for your academic and professional success. For additional guidance, consider tools like Event Registration Software to enhance your conference experience or read our blog on building effective conference websites.