Maximizing events, guest speakers, and panels

- Speakers and panelists are industry experts, have large professional networks, and have shown they're willing to share knowledge and information. That's why they make the perfect addition to your professional network. The key is learning how to connect with them and build a relationship. And fortunately, I've discovered a simple process for doing this over the years. The first step to getting the absolute most out of guest speakers and panelists is simple. Find out who's on the bill ahead of time and what their topic will be. Next, reach out to the speakers to get personally acquainted. Since you're trying to connect with them in a professional capacity, the first place to look for them is on LinkedIn. As a industry leader, chances are they'll be easy to find. In the rare case that you don't find the speaker on LinkedIn, you can check other social media channels as well. While you're looking for a platform that lets you message the speaker, you can also get more insight into their personality and their professional specialties looking over their social media pages. One by one, send the panelists and speakers a quick message telling them how excited you are to attend the event, to listen to their point of view, and to ultimately learn more about the topic at hand. Thank them for participating in the event and tell them that you look forward to learning from them. Now you've done your research and you've touched base so you're all set to hit the event. Be sure to get to the venue a little early to make sure that you can snag a seat in the front row. That close up, unobstructed vantage point is going to help you make eye contact, build familiarity with the speakers, and have a clear sight line for taking photos. During breaks and intermissions at the event, it's time to put those photos to good use on Twitter. At this point, the goal is to give back. Post live from the event tweeting about what you're learning and always remembering to tag those speakers when you post pictures of them. In a sense, you're repaying the speakers for their insights and information by giving them publicity and promoting them to your professional network. After the event wraps up, take a moment and have a quick word with the panelists. Start by introducing yourself, which could be a bit easier since they may remember you from the gracious email that you sent them beforehand. From there, ask a question, let them know you've been spreading their message to your audience, and show gratitude for their time and their expertise. Who doesn't love hearing from someone in the audience after giving a talk or presentation? I know I do. When you get home from the event or the following day, reach out to the panelists via LinkedIn and ask for 10 minutes or so to meet, video chat, or have a phone conversation. By this point, you've had contact with that person before the event to show your excitement, you've attended their event, you shared their message with your followers, you've introduced yourself in person, and now you're reaching out to chat. Chances are they'll be receptive to a conversation. Remember, there are no rules to networking that are set in stone. Don't be afraid to step outside of the box and get creative. What I've given you here is a great starting place, but it's important to make what you do your own so that it is indeed authentic. Let me share a moment of insight. When I was in the process of my last job search, I followed many of these steps. I attended a panel event, I sat in the front row, and I snapped photos of the panelists. While I was there it dawned on me. I'm sure this is a big moment for those on the panel. It's a moment they're proud of and would like to share with their network, their friends, and their family. And since you can't take selfies while speaking in front of an audience, my pictures could be put to good use. So following the event, I hopped on Instagram, I reached out to each of the panelists, and I sent over photos that I'd taken of them. Not only were they appreciative, but the interaction led to a conversation and subsequent friendship with two of the panelists. The moral of the story is this, if you're going to attend a speaking event, take the time to treat it like the career investment that it is. Do your homework in advance, interact, show appreciation to the speakers, and make new and valuable contacts.