If you work in the nursing field, chances are you will have the opportunity to attend some kind of conference or symposium in your career. While some people only go for the free pens and stress balls, you should go with the intention of soaking up every opportunity available! Whether it be a job fair, a specialty conference or continued education, there is something to learn at every event. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of a nursing conference.
Take Notes
Most likely there will be speakers at these events giving tips and advice, so don’t fall asleep! It can be long and boring, but stay focused because this is what will set you apart from the rest. Take notes when you go to a speaker and really try to soak up as much information as possible. Good speakers can be a gold mine if you listen and comprehend the material.
Be Outgoing
It can be a little intimidating being at a conference with hundreds of successful people, but don’t let yourself shy away from networking! Go up to booths that interest you or stop a speaker after their presentation and thank them for their time and information. When you create meaningful relationships, even if it’s only for a moment, you never know when you’ll see that person again and how it could benefit you.
Be Proud
You are where you are because of hard work and dedication, so give yourself some credit! Prepare a short 30 second “elevator speech” to have ready to present when meeting a potential employer or client that you want to impress. This will help you feel less nervous and give the best presentation of yourself in a short amount of time.
Regroup
Once the conference is over, it’s easy to get back into your normal routine without really understanding and utilizing the information and connections you made at the conference. On your trip home or as soon as you get back, get together with your team or by yourself and write down what you learned from the conference. The most important step is to follow up and add the people you met on LinkedIn. Don’t let all the good information and relationships you built go to waste by forgetting about them when you’re in the comfort of your hometown!
Conferences, symposiums or continued education gatherings can benefit your work and skills greatly if utilized correctly. Even though it takes a little more time and effort, if you try making the most of these conferences, you will reap the rewards.
