On the opening night of RIMS 2014, the first-timer orientation offered newcomers inside tips and tricks for this year’s conference in Denver. This year’s annual risk management summit offers more educational sessions and booths to visit than ever before, but that is only half the experience. For the other half, Thom Singer, “The Conference Catalyst,” shared some of his expert advice on networking, whether at one of the many parties or on the packed exhibit hall floor.
With the theme “Connecting with People in a Social Media Crazy World,” Singer emphasized the a return to basics when facing the unique challenges of getting off your devices and moving beyond social media relationships to form real connections.
“When you’re with people, remember it choose people,” he said. “There is some assembly required — you have to make decisions and do work to build your network.
And when you do, you’re not just building connections, but building your brand and taking control of it.”
Here are a few of his top tips for making the most out of your time at the conference:
- Hallway conversations are learning opportunities, and you never know who you’ll meet just through serendipity
- Put your phone away during breaks and lunches — don’t let technology become a social crutch
- Make it easy for people to talk to you by smiling and being approachable
- Wear your nametag: it says you’re part of the club while you’re here and offers an immediate way to start any conversation — and if you see a nametag, take advantage of the opening
- Leave your workers behind — sometimes, you have to remember this isn’t a junior high dance, leave your clique behind and surround yourself with new people
- Be curious about other people and ask questions, don’t just wait around to hear what they can do for you
- Know your own brand — it’s how people will remember and talk about you down the line, so think about what you want your brand to be and take active ownership
- Follow up: A Facebook like or a retweet is just a Facebook like or a retweet, not a connection — those require work and engagement over time, so this one meeting is just the start
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