Continuing to learn long after you graduate is important for advancement professionals.  

“While online learning is a great way to brush up on our skills and add some vital info and lessons to our repertoire, there are some distinct advantages to being with other people,” Jill Griffin says in Forbes. “Going to conferences can be a rich and rewarding [and profitable] endeavor.”

But it’s not enough to just attend conferences, you need to make sure you are getting the most out of your time. Griffin lays out a multitude ways to maximize your conference experience.

Look the part

“Think through who you are and what you aspire to be. Then choose your conference attire carefully,” Griffin says. “Find a clothier you trust and seek their advice. As the saying goes, you only have one chance to make a great first impression.”

Arrive at the talk a little early

Besides the always great benefit of finding the best seat, arriving at presentations early sets you up to have unique experiences you may not otherwise have. For example, the presenter may show up early and you could have one-on-one time that no one else can experience.

Sit up front

Sitting up front helps you stay engaged, but Griffin says that’s not the only benefit.

“These days, as a conference attendee I have uncovered a newer reason: It allows me to provide moral support to presenters by providing eye-contact and occasionally nodding my head in agreement,” she explains. “It’s been my experience that if you cross paths with presenters, they will thank you for your support.”

Stand up and ask a question

Asking questions to the presenter gets you noticed by presenters and attendees alike.

Share a story

“Go to conferences armed with stories and anecdotes. When invited, tell yours,” recommends Griffin. “The best stories show your humility. People love it when you can poke a little fun at yourself.”

Smile

A smile is a way to start a conversation without even speaking. It encourages others to smile back and opens communication without a lot of effort.

Be kind

“Holding the elevator door and pulling a chair over so another attendee can join your table are just two of the many ways you can provide small kindnesses at a conference,” Griffin says. “These gestures tell the world who you are.”

Jot a note on a business card

Collecting business cards at a conference is always a good idea. Try to do the extra step and jot some notes so you remember the person better when you want to follow up.

Follow up quickly

“There is nothing that delights a new acquaintance more than receiving what you promised before they expect it. It gets their attention and makes you memorable,” Griffin says.

Once you follow up, make sure to stay in touch.

Also, continue to use what you learn at the conference moving forward as it’s not meant to just be beneficial for the time you are there, but for the rest of your career.