346: The Way to Build Relationships at Conferences, with Robbie Samuels

Robbie Samuels: Croissants vs. Bagels

Robbie Samuels has been recognized as a networking expert by Inc. and Lifehacker, and is the author of Croissants vs. Bagels: Strategic, Effective, and Inclusive Networking at Conferences.* He’s a member of the National Speakers Association and has been speaking on the topic of inclusive networking for over a decade. He also hosts the On the Schmooze podcast.

If you’re brand new to a conference, scan the floor and look for welcoming people. If you don’t see anyone, get in a line somewhere to meet people.
If you’re a regular at the conference, think of yourself as a host.
A lot of networking success is about preparation.
When you go into a session early, don’t just hop on your phone. Talk to people.
When a line forms to talk to a speaker, work the line. It’s a great opportunity for networking.
Organizing a networking event at a conference is a great way to meet people.

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