Tips for Connecting at Virtual Conferences: Where the World is Your Stage

Virtual conferences present a unique challenge when it comes to connecting with others. You’re not in the same physical space, so how can you make meaningful connections with attendees? We’ve noticed that it can feel even more challenging to connect in a virtual setting than it does in a traditional conference. This is because you’re no longer looking at someone from across a conference table. You can’t see their facial expressions or body language, so it can be harder to discern their true intentions. At the same time, it gives you the opportunity to connect with people who share similar interests and passions. That’s why you need to follow a few tips to succeed and make the most of your virtual conference.

Meet before the conference

The first tip for connecting at a virtual conference is to meet as many people as you can before the event.  First, it’ll help you get a sense for who you’ll be meeting at the conference. You’ll have an idea of what interests and areas of expertise you’ll be meeting others in. And, it’ll give you a chance to introduce yourself and build a relationship.  Second, it’ll help you get ready for the event. Before the event, you can get some practice with your presentation, networking strategies, and meeting new people. This way, you’ll be more confident coming into the event and meeting as many people as possible.

Be authentic

The second tip for connecting at a virtual conference is to be authentic. This means being yourself and staying true to who you are.  First, being authentic will help you connect with others. Being yourself will allow the people around you to trust you and open up. They’ll be able to see past the digital persona and get to know who you are as a person. The same goes for you. You’ll be able to relax, be yourself, and open up to others.  Second, authentic connections build trust. Trust is one of the most important things when it comes to building relationships. Trust is what allows you to open up and be authentic with people.

Be mindful of body language

The third tip for connecting at a virtual conference is to be mindful of body language.  First, body language can make or break a connection. For example, if you’re in a meeting and someone is slouching, they’re probably not paying attention to you. On the other hand, if someone is sitting straight up, they’re probably more focused on what you’re saying.  Body language is an important factor to consider when meeting people at a virtual conference. It can be challenging to see someone’s face while they’re also looking at their computer. You can also observe how others are sitting, standing, and moving while they’re in your presence. If someone is slouching or leaning forward, they might not be paying attention to you.

Be mindful of verbal cues

The fourth tip for connecting at a virtual conference is to be mindful of verbal cues.  This includes the words you choose, but also the tone of your voice and the speed you speak.  First, the words you choose can help you make connections with others. For example, if you’re speaking with someone who’s into marketing, you might want to talk about your experience with the program and what you’ve learned. This way, you’ll be able to talk about the subject you’ve both found interesting, and it’ll help you connect.  Second, the tone of your voice can also help you connect with others. For example, if you’re speaking to someone in a meeting, it’s easy to talk at a loud volume. You can whisper or lower your voice if you want to be mindful of verbal cues.

Make eye-contact

The fifth tip for connecting at a virtual conference is to make eye-contact.  First, this will help you get a feel for the person you’re talking to. You can see their eyes to get a sense of what they’re feeling, interested in, and thinking. You can even glance down at their computer screen to see if they’ve opened a browser window or opened a program on their phone.  Another way to make eye-contact is to look at the person across the table, not at the laptop or phone. This will help you distinguish who you’re looking at and give you a better idea of their body language and facial expressions.

Be brief and concise

The sixth tip for connecting at a virtual conference is to be brief and concise.  First, being brief and concise will help you keep your presentations concise and focused. It’ll also help you avoid rambling or going off on tangents.  Second, being brief and concise will help you keep your networking brief and concise. You have only a limited amount of time in a networking event, especially a virtual one. So, it’s important to be brief and concise when making connections.

Conclusion

Virtual conferences have become commonplace these days, but also a challenge when it comes to connecting with the other people in the room.

These events can feel a bit disconnected and isolating. That’s why it’s important to follow these tips for connecting at a virtual conference.  First, meet as many people before the event as possible. This will help you get a sense for who you’ll be meeting at the conference, and it’ll give you a chance to introduce yourself and build relationships.  Second, be authentic. This means being yourself and staying true to who you are.  Third, be mindful of body language.  Fourth, be mindful of verbal cues.  Fifth, make eye-contact.  Sixth, be brief and concise.