Networking Tips for Introverts: Thriving at the Illuminate Digital Conference

As professionals, we are often encouraged to attend conferences to learn new skills, stay updated on industry trends, and expand our network. For some, conferences are an exciting opportunity to meet new people. For others, particularly introverts or shy individuals, the social aspect of conferences can be exhausting, especially when you interact with people for prolonged periods. By the end of the day, you’re eager to return home or to your hotel room where you can rest and recharge. Sigh. Fellow introverts, can you relate?

What Is the Illuminate Conference? Why Is It Perfect for Introverts

Fortunately, hope is not lost for introverts who want to attend conferences. If you have a choice, select a conference that aligns with your social preferences and professional goals. Instead of attending an event set in a large venue with music booming through floor-length speakers and more than 300 attendees making small talk around you, try a more personalized gathering that is better suited to your needs. 

One such conference is Illuminate, hosted by Together Digital, a hybrid, social organization empowering and supporting women who work in digital industries. Held at charming Union Hall in Cincinnati, Ohio, our event offers a comfortable, intimate atmosphere, making it easy to meet other attendees and engage in quality one-on-one conversations.

Five Networking Tips for Introverts

The following tips can make networking less daunting and draining. These strategies aim to help you feel more at ease and maintain your social energy when interacting with others. It is also important to know you’re not alone. Many of our members and attendees identify as introverts.

Tip 1: Research and Plan Ahead

Whether or not you get to choose which conference to attend, always research the event beforehand. Review the agenda, select which workshops and sessions to attend. Check how many breaks are included and whether there are quiet spaces available where you can decompress if you become overwhelmed.

We intentionally schedule several breaks during our conference and provide multiple huddle spaces at our venue. Knowing this information in advance will help you plan appropriately and conserve both your physical and mental energy. If there are any happy hours or parties after the conference, plan to rest during the day before attending these evening events. This will help you feel refreshed and ready to meet new people, rather than feeling burnt out and tired.

Tip 2: Set Your Social and Professional Goals

While researching the conference, you’ll also want to set your professional and social objectives. If you want to learn more about artificial intelligence (A.I.), you can plan to attend at least three sessions on this topic. Socially, you can aim to meet one new person or connect with a speaker whose session you enjoyed.

Nervous about boring people or becoming tongue-tied? Write down a few sentences explaining who you are, what industry you work in, and your career aspirations. Practice what you want to say out loud so it feels more natural when you interact with other attendees. Not sure who you can practice with? If you’re a Together Digital member, you can request a practice partner in our Slack #ask channel, where members help each other by answering questions and providing support. 

Don’t forget to exchange contact information or connect on LinkedIn with new people you meet. A few days after the event, send a short message letting your new contact know you enjoyed speaking with them. To continue building your connection, offer to meet via Zoom or in person if you live near each other.

Tip 3: Attend With a Friend or Co-Worker

Invite a friend or co-worker to attend a conference with you. Having someone by your side can help you feel more comfortable and secure. When I attend an event with a friend or colleague, I am more confident and more likely to talk to new people because I know I have support nearby. You and your friend can set a goal to each meet one new person and bring them back to your group. This approach allows you to easily expand your network by leveraging your existing relationships.

Tip 4: Find the Other Introverts

When attending a conference alone, look for others who are also by themselves.They are likely introverts too, seeking someone to connect with. If they are open to conversation, introduce yourself and ask them about their interests. You might find something in common. 

Tip 5: Wear a Conversation-Starter

Adding a funny joke to your name tag or wearing a bright green blazer can showcase your humor and friendly personality without you saying a word. People will be more inclined to start a conversation with you about those quirky details. Let your clothes or accessories do the hard work of breaking the ice with strangers.

Bonus Tip: Embrace Your Introvert Superpowers

Although introverts may not be the loudest or the most talkative people at an event, we still have much to contribute. Introverts are blessed with creative, empathetic qualities, making us great listeners and problem solvers. When you meet new people at a conference, let those qualities shine. 

Take your empathy skills a step further by offering to help someone with a professional obstacle or personal challenge. This will help create a genuine connection. You can also follow up after the conference to see how an issue was resolved and if you can be of further assistance.

Attend Our Illuminate Conference To Expand Your Social Network and Meet Other Creative Introverts

Ready to connect with friendly, powerful women professionals making strides in digital industries? Register for the Illuminate conference by August 31, 2024 to take advantage of early bird pricing. Our event features exciting keynote speakers, workshops, and fun social events. We look forward to meeting you there!

Interested in learning more about Together Digital? Check out our Join page.