You might feel daunted about attending an academic conference for the first time. You have presentations to attend, new people to meet and plenty of opportunities to step outside your comfort zone. You can make the experience less stressful with a little preparation.
Plan before you arrive
Spend time looking through the programme and making a rough schedule before you travel. Highlight the talks you’re most interested in.
Introduce yourself
Many first-time attendees like you worry about networking at a hotel conference venue, but most delegates remember what it was like to be new. You can start simple conversations before the sessions begin or during breaks. Asking about someone’s research is a good way you can start a conversation.
A conference hosted at a hotel conference venue makes informal networking easier for you because accommodation, meeting rooms and social spaces are often located in one place.
Attend a mix of sessions
You might be tempted to focus just on topics directly linked to your own work, but some of the most useful ideas come from neighbouring fields, so try to go to at least one session outside your own specialism. Research from Advance HE shows the value of professional networking and knowledge sharing at academic events.
Take care of yourself
Long days can be tiring so keep yourself hydrated, eat regularly and give yourself short breaks.
Follow up afterwards
After the conference, it’s a good idea to send brief messages to useful contacts you met. Organise your notes and review what you learned as well.