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What advice do you have for attending a conference?
I'm attending a media & entertainment conference this upcoming summer. It will be my second time attending this conference, and I think I did okay last time. I even made business cards, but they seemed pretty outdated since people mainly shared their LinkedIn profiles. I'm not looking for work right now; this is more of a learning/networking experience for me. So, outside of dressing professionally and learning to network, what advice do you have for preparing for a conference, and what should I do during it?
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8 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kamaria !
The conference sounds awesome !
Most likely there will be many studios represented at this conference so you may want to collect business cards of the various companies connected to your career goal.
As for your business cards, they're not a waste - you can still take them with you and use them. If you already have a Linked In profile, just write the URL to your Linked In profile on the back of your business cards. Continue to use them. If you don't have a Linked In profile, register there and create one. From all the business cards you collect that day, follow/connect with those people and companies on Linked In.
Networking all depends on how outgoing a person is, but it's important to just be yourself. If you feel comfortable initiating conversations, do so. Inevitably, someone will initiate/start a conversation with you. Is the conference out of town or in Atlanta ?
Since your goal is to become a Library Science professional and also wanting to develop programs to serve youth. it will be important to know of all the media and entertainment outlets so that you can build resources for your future work. This would be especially important for future partnerships integrating your Library Programs and Youth Programs with possible arts and entertainment programs for both. Our local library has an area set aside on the first floor for Art. They show a different local Artist every month.
As a Library and Youth Services professional, you one day may want to make a You Tube Channel showcasing your programs, so it would be great to network with some ad agencies and communications firms that do videos.
Most of all, have fun !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
The conference sounds awesome !
Most likely there will be many studios represented at this conference so you may want to collect business cards of the various companies connected to your career goal.
As for your business cards, they're not a waste - you can still take them with you and use them. If you already have a Linked In profile, just write the URL to your Linked In profile on the back of your business cards. Continue to use them. If you don't have a Linked In profile, register there and create one. From all the business cards you collect that day, follow/connect with those people and companies on Linked In.
Networking all depends on how outgoing a person is, but it's important to just be yourself. If you feel comfortable initiating conversations, do so. Inevitably, someone will initiate/start a conversation with you. Is the conference out of town or in Atlanta ?
Since your goal is to become a Library Science professional and also wanting to develop programs to serve youth. it will be important to know of all the media and entertainment outlets so that you can build resources for your future work. This would be especially important for future partnerships integrating your Library Programs and Youth Programs with possible arts and entertainment programs for both. Our local library has an area set aside on the first floor for Art. They show a different local Artist every month.
As a Library and Youth Services professional, you one day may want to make a You Tube Channel showcasing your programs, so it would be great to network with some ad agencies and communications firms that do videos.
Most of all, have fun !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Thank you so much for this advice, Michelle! This conference is out of town, in NYC. I'll definitely do some more research on the companies attending, so I can make a list of questions in advance and polish my elevator pitch.
Kamaria
You're welcome for the advice !
Michelle M.
Updated
Marty’s Answer
Media and Entertainment conferences are the best way to learn about the business - who the players are and what's the game. I've been to many, its an opportunity to network and determine who might be of help to you, and who you can help. Being outgoing going and friendly helps navigate the path to meet people, in the Starbucks line or on the conference floor.
Business cards are still important - if you want to add your Linked In addy or website it can all be on the card. Dress is always business casual, comfy shoes helps navigate the miles walked in a day.
I love conferences as a way to see folks that I've met and worked with over the years, however, fun doesn't describe my goal. I aim to advance my career and/ or social network, and maybe learn a new trick or two. Good luck -
Business cards are still important - if you want to add your Linked In addy or website it can all be on the card. Dress is always business casual, comfy shoes helps navigate the miles walked in a day.
I love conferences as a way to see folks that I've met and worked with over the years, however, fun doesn't describe my goal. I aim to advance my career and/ or social network, and maybe learn a new trick or two. Good luck -
Updated
Dolly’s Answer
Hi Kamira,
1. Refresh your “digital business card”
Make sure your LinkedIn headline clearly says what you do + what you care about in media/entertainment.
Create a QR code that links to your profile (save it as your phone lock screen for fast scanning).
If you want something physical, bring small, modern minimalist contact cards with a QR code instead of full business cards.
2. Build your hit list
Not for job-searching—more for meaningful conversations.
Make a short list of:
Speakers you want to hear
Companies you’re curious about
People you met last year you want to reconnect with
Prep your learning system
You’ll absorb a ton—structure it:
Create a Notes App template: Takeaways, people I met, links/resources, follow-ups.
Decide what 2–3 themes you want to focus on (AI, streaming ops, content workflows, data in production, etc.).
This stops the event from feeling like loud chaos.
Most of all have fun! Hope this helps. Goodluck.
1. Refresh your “digital business card”
Make sure your LinkedIn headline clearly says what you do + what you care about in media/entertainment.
Create a QR code that links to your profile (save it as your phone lock screen for fast scanning).
If you want something physical, bring small, modern minimalist contact cards with a QR code instead of full business cards.
2. Build your hit list
Not for job-searching—more for meaningful conversations.
Make a short list of:
Speakers you want to hear
Companies you’re curious about
People you met last year you want to reconnect with
Prep your learning system
You’ll absorb a ton—structure it:
Create a Notes App template: Takeaways, people I met, links/resources, follow-ups.
Decide what 2–3 themes you want to focus on (AI, streaming ops, content workflows, data in production, etc.).
This stops the event from feeling like loud chaos.
Most of all have fun! Hope this helps. Goodluck.
Updated
David’s Answer
This is a perfect approach for a second conference—focusing on learning and strategic networking over job-hunting. For preparation, the most critical step is deep pre-event research and scheduling. Review the full conference agenda, including speakers and panel topics, and choose specific sessions that directly address your current interests or knowledge gaps in the media & entertainment industry; aim for a mix of broad trends and niche, highly technical presentations. Beyond the speakers, utilize the official event app or social media hashtag (like on LinkedIn or X/Twitter) to identify 3-5 key attendees you would genuinely like to connect with, and craft a brief, non-intrusive message before the conference begins, mentioning a session you're both attending or a topic you find interesting in their work. This moves networking from random chance to intentional, pre-scheduled conversations.
During the conference, focus on being a proactive learner and an engaging conversationalist. Since business cards are passé, ensure your LinkedIn profile is completely up-to-date and polished, as this will be your primary sharing tool. Instead of waiting for others to approach you, make a habit of asking one thoughtful question during the Q&A portion of every session you attend; this positions you as a curious, engaged student to both the speaker and the surrounding audience. For general networking, avoid getting stuck in conversations with people you already know, and set a goal to meet a certain number of new people each day. The best conversation starters focus on the other person, such as: "What has been your biggest takeaway from the conference so far?" or "What project are you most excited about working on right now?" Most importantly, take notes on your phone (or on a physical notepad) immediately after a conversation, noting the person's name and one specific detail you discussed to use when you send your personalized LinkedIn connection request/follow-up email within 24 hours.
During the conference, focus on being a proactive learner and an engaging conversationalist. Since business cards are passé, ensure your LinkedIn profile is completely up-to-date and polished, as this will be your primary sharing tool. Instead of waiting for others to approach you, make a habit of asking one thoughtful question during the Q&A portion of every session you attend; this positions you as a curious, engaged student to both the speaker and the surrounding audience. For general networking, avoid getting stuck in conversations with people you already know, and set a goal to meet a certain number of new people each day. The best conversation starters focus on the other person, such as: "What has been your biggest takeaway from the conference so far?" or "What project are you most excited about working on right now?" Most importantly, take notes on your phone (or on a physical notepad) immediately after a conversation, noting the person's name and one specific detail you discussed to use when you send your personalized LinkedIn connection request/follow-up email within 24 hours.
Updated
Diana’s Answer
Hi Kamaria! It sounds like you’re already approaching this conference with the right mindset—learning, networking, and growth rather than immediate job hunting.
Here are some practical tips to help you prepare before, during, and after the conference:
Before the conference
-Clarify your goals: Decide what you want to get out of it (learning about the industry, meeting people in specific roles, discovering trends, etc.). This helps you be intentional without pressure.
-Update your LinkedIn profile: Since people are sharing LinkedIn instead of business cards, make sure your headline, photo, and summary clearly reflect your interests and strengths.
-Research speakers and attendees: Identify a few panels or people you’d genuinely like to learn from. Having context makes conversations feel more natural.
-Prepare a short introduction: A simple, authentic explanation of who you are and what you’re interested in is more effective than a polished “pitch.”
During the conference
-Focus on quality over quantity: Meaningful conversations matter more than collecting contacts. Be curious and listen more than you talk.
-Ask thoughtful questions: This helps you stand out and makes interactions memorable.
-Take notes: Write down insights, names, or ideas that resonate with you—these are useful later for follow-ups.
-Be yourself: Conferences can feel performative, but authenticity builds stronger connections than trying to impress.
After the conference
-Follow up on LinkedIn: Send short, personalized messages referencing your conversation. This keeps the connection alive.
-Reflect on what you learned: What surprised you? What confirmed your interests? This reflection is part of the value of attending.
-Apply one insight: Even small actions (updating a skill, exploring a role, following industry voices) help turn networking into growth.
Since you’re not job-hunting right now, think of this conference as planting seeds. Learning, presence, and genuine curiosity often open doors when the timing is right.
Hope you have a great experience—you’re already doing many things right!
Here are some practical tips to help you prepare before, during, and after the conference:
Before the conference
-Clarify your goals: Decide what you want to get out of it (learning about the industry, meeting people in specific roles, discovering trends, etc.). This helps you be intentional without pressure.
-Update your LinkedIn profile: Since people are sharing LinkedIn instead of business cards, make sure your headline, photo, and summary clearly reflect your interests and strengths.
-Research speakers and attendees: Identify a few panels or people you’d genuinely like to learn from. Having context makes conversations feel more natural.
-Prepare a short introduction: A simple, authentic explanation of who you are and what you’re interested in is more effective than a polished “pitch.”
During the conference
-Focus on quality over quantity: Meaningful conversations matter more than collecting contacts. Be curious and listen more than you talk.
-Ask thoughtful questions: This helps you stand out and makes interactions memorable.
-Take notes: Write down insights, names, or ideas that resonate with you—these are useful later for follow-ups.
-Be yourself: Conferences can feel performative, but authenticity builds stronger connections than trying to impress.
After the conference
-Follow up on LinkedIn: Send short, personalized messages referencing your conversation. This keeps the connection alive.
-Reflect on what you learned: What surprised you? What confirmed your interests? This reflection is part of the value of attending.
-Apply one insight: Even small actions (updating a skill, exploring a role, following industry voices) help turn networking into growth.
Since you’re not job-hunting right now, think of this conference as planting seeds. Learning, presence, and genuine curiosity often open doors when the timing is right.
Hope you have a great experience—you’re already doing many things right!
Updated
Heidi’s Answer
Attending a conference is an awesome opportunity not just to meet people, but to learn how an industry really works. Since this is your second time going, think of it as leveling up. Here’s a few things to consider that goes beyond “dress professionally” and “network more.”
Before the Conference
1. Set 2–3 simple goals. Ask yourself: What would make this conference a success?
Examples: “Learn how AI is shaping entertainment media" or “Meet 5 people working in roles I’m curious about.”
2. Polish your LinkedIn
Since people swap profiles more than business cards now. Update your headline to reflect your interests (ex: “Media & Entertainment Student | Interested in Production & Storytelling”).
3. Research the speakers & sessions, Know who will be there. Pick: “Must-attend” sessions vs. “Nice-to-attend” sessions. AND -- most importantly, 1–2 “stretch” sessions outside your comfort zone.
During the Conference
* Don’t try to meet everyone focus on real conversations
* Ask thoughtful but simple questions
* Take notes—short ones
* Give yourself breaks. Conferences are overstimulating and breaks help you recharge and show up better in the next conversation.
After the Conference, reflect on ... What inspired me? What confused me? What do I want to learn next?
One last tip: Let curiosity lead you. You’re not job-hunting .. you’re exploring! Hope all this helps!
Before the Conference
1. Set 2–3 simple goals. Ask yourself: What would make this conference a success?
Examples: “Learn how AI is shaping entertainment media" or “Meet 5 people working in roles I’m curious about.”
2. Polish your LinkedIn
Since people swap profiles more than business cards now. Update your headline to reflect your interests (ex: “Media & Entertainment Student | Interested in Production & Storytelling”).
3. Research the speakers & sessions, Know who will be there. Pick: “Must-attend” sessions vs. “Nice-to-attend” sessions. AND -- most importantly, 1–2 “stretch” sessions outside your comfort zone.
During the Conference
* Don’t try to meet everyone focus on real conversations
* Ask thoughtful but simple questions
* Take notes—short ones
* Give yourself breaks. Conferences are overstimulating and breaks help you recharge and show up better in the next conversation.
After the Conference, reflect on ... What inspired me? What confused me? What do I want to learn next?
One last tip: Let curiosity lead you. You’re not job-hunting .. you’re exploring! Hope all this helps!
Updated
Kirstyn’s Answer
A Media & Entertainment Conference sounds like so much fun! Here are some tips to help you make the most of it: Dress professionally but comfortably, especially with comfy shoes, since you'll be on your feet a lot. Bring a notebook and pen for jotting down notes, and have water or snacks with you. Make sure you're well-rested to fully enjoy the day. If you want to capture important slides or moments, keep your camera ready.
For networking, think about what you want to achieve: meeting new people, learning from experts, or just making connections. This will help you decide how to start conversations. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—ask people about their work or what brought them to the event. Most people love talking about themselves, and showing genuine interest goes a long way.
After the event, connect on LinkedIn with a quick message to remind them who you are and keep the connection alive. And most importantly, have fun! (:
For networking, think about what you want to achieve: meeting new people, learning from experts, or just making connections. This will help you decide how to start conversations. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—ask people about their work or what brought them to the event. Most people love talking about themselves, and showing genuine interest goes a long way.
After the event, connect on LinkedIn with a quick message to remind them who you are and keep the connection alive. And most importantly, have fun! (:
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Love this! I agree with others, create some goals and let nothing stand in your way! Maybe the goal is to meet and connect with 10 new people on LinkedIn. Although you aren’t looking for work, connections within the industry could be super beneficial.
The other thing, summarize your experience with an article on LinkedIn. Highlight specific speaker and sessions you attended. Comment on the venue and the organizer. Most times I do this on LinkedIn, I get good traction and views of my profile.
Create A Goal
Post On LinkedIn You Are Attending
Post a Summary Article On LinkedIn
The other thing, summarize your experience with an article on LinkedIn. Highlight specific speaker and sessions you attended. Comment on the venue and the organizer. Most times I do this on LinkedIn, I get good traction and views of my profile.
Jerome recommends the following next steps: