With our 2024 in-person conference just around the corner, TPRA would like to share the wide array of benefits which come from attending an industry-specific conference.
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional development and networking, conferences stand out as vibrant hubs for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration. Throughout this five-part blog series, we will delve into the multifaceted advantages that conferences offer. Each installment will explore a different facet of how conferences empower individuals and organizations alike.
Today’s blog will highlight the notable benefit of NETWORKING in conference settings, including sharing industry insights & trends, building connections, and participating in collaborative forums, as well as some tips for enhancing your networking skills at conferences.
Learn from industry experts:
Within a networking environment like a conference, you can discuss a wide variety of topics with industry experts and peers. This allows you to gain a deeper understanding of your particular area of interest. It can also expand your horizons with new conversation topics by interacting with established and seasoned industry professionals within, or even outside of, your field.
Attending conferences provides a special chance to network with peers and fellow industry professionals within an in-person setting. Engaging and participating in activities offered such as panels, roundtables, and in-house networking events provides you with valuable knowledge and understanding not regularly gained from an online setting. By simply talking to other seasoned professionals and tapping into their knowledge and expertise, you are able to gain a more in-depth understanding of new technological innovations, industry trends, and best practices. Through these interactions, you can evaluate ideas, deepen your knowledge base, and get access to expertise and information that is not typically available through conventional channels.
Building meaningful connections:
Professionals from various organizations, backgrounds, and positions come together at conferences, which results in the perfect setting for building deep connections. Whether it is during a special networking event, a roundtable, or even just a coffee break, conferences offer a plethora of networking opportunities. During these opportunities, you are able to build potential connections, partnerships, and collaborations by striking up conversations and exchanging contact details. These relationships grow your professional network and offer a helping hand in overcoming current challenges as chances are that someone else has already gone through what you are going through.
“Networking is so important for any professional and is how TPRA was founded,” Julie Gaiaschi, CEO & Co-Founder of the Third Party Risk Association, said. “I met my former partner at a TPRM-related conference. He was a speaker and after his presentation, I went up to him to ask him questions as it relates to developing a new TPRM program. The discussion turned into benchmarking sessions over Zoom. I then said if we have these questions, others do as well. Thus started a roundtable that turned into TPRA. At the time, I had no idea what that conversation would lead to. So often I hear from others how networking has led to a career opportunity, a program enhancement, or a personal opportunity.”
Conference networking makes it possible to create lasting relationships that go beyond the mere exchange of business cards and LinkedIn connections. These relationships act as a bases of support, providing motivation, guidance, and useful knowledge that promotes both professional and personal development. Conference goers create the basis for collaborative projects, shared knowledge, and ongoing relationships that strengthen their careers and personal lives by dedicating time and energy to developing these connections.
Exploring Collaborative Opportunities
Among the main advantages of networking at conferences is the chance to explore collaborative efforts with peers and business associates. Conferences serve as a nurturing environment for creativity and cooperation, creating settings in which concepts can be exchanged, improved upon, and cooperatively carried out. You might find opportunities for collaboration on joint research projects or business ventures with other practitioners through discussions, brainstorming sessions, and informal interactions. Conference discussions have the power to push innovation, advance your industry, and leave a lasting impression.
Keeping Up With Industry Trends
Keeping up with industry trends and developments is crucial for professional development and organizational success in today's rapidly shifting business landscape. Attending conferences offers networking opportunities that give you a firsthand look at the newest developments in technology, industry trends, and changes in laws and regulations. Through talks with key individuals, attending keynote discussions, and taking part in sessions specific to your industry, you can learn a great deal about the opportunities and problems that are new to your field. You can use this knowledge to position your organization and yourself for future success by preparing for changes in the market and adjusting your strategies accordingly.
Here are some additional tips for enhancing your networking skills:
Set Objectives: Establish your networking objectives before you go to the conference. Think through your goals, whether they involve expanding your professional network, looking for collaborative opportunities, or learning about the latest market developments.
Do Your Research: Prior to the conference, spend some time learning about the panelists, speakers, and other attendees. Learn about their professional backgrounds, accomplishments, and areas of specialization to find common ground and possible conversation starters.
Don't Be Afraid To Initiate The Conversation: Instead of waiting for a professional to approach you, strike up a conversation with other attendees. During meals, breaks, or networking events, approach people and introduce yourself with confidence. Utilize networking games and activities provided by the hosting organization as a jumping off point for striking up conversations. These games are designed to encourage discussion and create a platform for attendees to interact with each other in meaningful ways, so take advantage of them.
Attend The In-House Networking Events: Take advantage of the social events, receptions, and networking opportunities that are planned as part of the conference schedule. Our upcoming conference features two all-attendee network events, plus additional invite-only events for select attendees! These casual settings offer incredible opportunities to establish stronger connections, share contact details, and engage with peers.
Use Social Media: Make use of social media sites like Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and LinkedIn to expand your professional network outside of the conference room. Engage online with other attendees and share thoughts, pictures, and highlights from the conference.
Follow Up: Follow up with people you met at the conference to stay in touch and keep the conversation going even after the event ends. Send personalized emails thanking the recipient for their time while giving ideas for future collaboration or interactions.
Attending conferences provides plenty of networking opportunities, such as access to industry knowledge, opportunities to form close relationships, a look into collaboration possibilities, and staying up to date on industry developments. Participating in networking activities during conferences can help you build a larger professional network, acquire valuable insight, and establish yourself as an expert in your field. As you prepare for your next conference, take advantage of the opportunities for networking and collaboration, and don't pass up the chance to grow both yourself professionally, as well as your company's success.
And where better to use your new networking skills than at TPRA’s very own Third Party Risk Madness conference! Join us at Third Party Risk Madness – where basketball, business, and TPRM unite for an epic showdown of innovation and success. Dribble your way to victory in Phoenix, Arizona, on April 9-12, 2024! Secure your court-side seat and take advantage of exclusive offers. Hurry, space is limited, and you won't want to be left on the bench for this thrilling event. [Register Here] Our discounted hotel room block ends on March 11th.