I will be attending WWDC14 and want to make the most of my trip to San Fran.
Attending a large conference like WWDC14 is a great opportunity to build meaningful relationships. Here are some strategies to help you make the most of your trip to San Francisco:
### 1. **Prepare in Advance**
- **Research Attendees and Speakers**: Know who will be there and identify people you want to connect with.
- **Plan Your Schedule**: Highlight sessions, workshops, and networking events that align with your interests and goals.
### 2. **Set Clear Goals**
- **Define Your Objectives**: Decide what you want to achieve, whether it’s finding potential collaborators, gaining insights, or meeting specific individuals.
- **Create an Elevator Pitch**: Prepare a brief introduction about yourself, your projects, and your goals.
### 3. **Leverage Social Media**
- **Join Online Groups**: Participate in pre-conference discussions on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or specialized forums.
- **Use Conference Hashtags**: Engage with other attendees using event-specific hashtags to start conversations and set up meetings.
### 4. **Attend Networking Events**
- **Join Meetups and Socials**: Participate in informal gatherings, parties, and side events where networking is more relaxed.
- **Be Open and Approachable**: Smile, make eye contact, and show genuine interest in others.
### 5. **Engage in Sessions Actively**
- **Ask Questions**: Engage with speakers during Q&A sessions to make yourself known and initiate follow-up conversations.
- **Take Notes and Follow Up**: Note down key points and follow up with speakers and participants afterwards to continue the conversation.
### 6. **Use Conference Apps**
- **Connect Through the App**: Many conferences have their own apps for networking. Use these to schedule meetings and keep track of contacts.
- **Set Up Meetings**: Reach out to attendees in advance to schedule one-on-one or small group meetings.
### 7. **Create and Share Content**
- **Live Tweet or Blog**: Share insights and updates from the conference to attract like-minded attendees.
- **Capture Moments**: Take photos and notes to share on social media or your blog, tagging relevant people to build connections.
### 8. **Be Genuine and Curious**
- **Show Interest in Others**: Ask about their work, projects, and interests. Listen more than you speak.
- **Offer Value**: Think about how you can help others or share useful information.
### 9. **Follow Up Post-Conference**
- **Send Personalized Messages**: Follow up with new contacts via email or LinkedIn, mentioning specific things you discussed.
- **Stay Connected**: Keep the conversation going by sharing relevant articles, inviting them to other events, or arranging future meetups.
### 10. **Attend Workshops and Smaller Sessions**
- **Engage in Interactive Sessions**: Workshops and smaller breakout sessions provide more opportunities for interaction and collaboration.
- **Participate Actively**: Volunteer for activities or discussions to make a lasting impression.
By being proactive, prepared, and genuinely interested in others, you can build meaningful and lasting relationships at WWDC14 and beyond. Enjoy your trip to San Francisco!
