As a Career Coach who enjoys connecting with others, I often find myself attending various conferences to broaden my horizons and expand my network. Recently, I had the pleasure of attending two fantastic events: the AGCAS Annual Conference in Sheffield and the Careers Registration Data Forum in London. These experiences were valuable and inspiring, and I am very grateful to the University of St Andrews for providing me with these opportunities. 

However, there is an aspect of my personality that can make these bustling environments a bit of a challenge: I am an introvert. This means that while I love meeting new people and learning from experts, I need to carefully plan my approach to ensure I can maximize the benefits of these events without feeling overwhelmed. 

The Power of Planning and Preparation 

One of my key strategies is to plan my attendance in advance. For instance, I like to announce my conference participation on LinkedIn. This not only helps to inform my connections but also serves as an invitation for them to approach me, easing the initial social awkwardness that I sometimes feel. It is a small step, but it significantly lowers the barrier to starting conversations. 

Additionally, I make it a point to review the delegate list beforehand and identify around five individuals I would like to engage with. I choose these people based on their roles, their contributions to the sector, or simply because I find their work intriguing. By having a clear plan, I ensure that I have meaningful conversations that I would not typically have the chance to enjoy. 

Conversations with a Purpose 

When it comes to conversations, I believe in being both prepared and genuine. Small talk is always a good icebreaker—I might ask someone about their journey to the conference or about their organisation. However, I also try to delve into more topical discussions, reflecting on the current trends and challenges in our field. I take the time to think about this in advance and this helps me steer conversations towards subjects that are both engaging and professionally relevant. 

Finding Quiet Spaces to Recharge 

As an introvert, the hustle and bustle of conferences can be draining. That is why I always look out for quiet spaces or outdoor areas where I can take a breather. This downtime is not just for relaxation; I typically use it to update my LinkedIn status, sharing insights and experiences from the conference. This digital engagement keeps my network in the loop and allows me to process my thoughts and ideas in a more serene environment. 

Engaging Through My Blog 

Writing my blog has been a game-changer in how I connect with others at conferences. I have noticed that people now approach me because they have read my posts and are curious to learn more or discuss something I have written about. This organic engagement is a wonderful bonus that makes the entire experience more fulfilling. It is not the primary reason I write, but it is certainly a lovely outcome that I appreciate. 

Standing Out and Being Remembered 

Another strategy that has worked well for me is asking questions during keynote sessions. This not only helps me engage with the speaker and the audience but also makes me more memorable. I understand that this might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it aligns well with my goal of making meaningful connections. 

Finally, I like to wear something distinctive that sets me apart—a unique accessory or a piece of clothing that can spark a conversation or help people remember me. It is a small but effective way to make a lasting impression. 

Embracing the Journey 

Attending conferences as an introverted Career Coach has its challenges, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can be an immensely rewarding experience. Whether it is through strategic planning, engaging conversations, or simply finding quiet moments to recharge, I have found ways to turn these events into opportunities for growth and connection. I am grateful for every chance to learn and to share my journey with others, and I look forward to many more conferences to come. 

Thank you for taking the time to read about my experiences and strategies. If you have any tips or stories of your own, I would love to hear them. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or reach out through my blog. Let us continue to grow and learn together, one conference at a time!