Complete Guide to Conference Networking: Before, During, and After the Event
- Nonprofit Learning Lab
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
By Nonprofit Learning Lab
Table of Contents
Introduction
Networking is one of the most valuable parts of attending a conference. For many nonprofit professionals, the word networking conjures images of forced small talk and conversations that feel more transactional than human.
Here’s the good news: effective conference networking doesn’t require being outgoing or salesy. It’s about curiosity, shared purpose, and most importantly, following up.
This guide walks you through how to network at a conference without feeling awkward and how to turn those conversations into real, lasting relationships before, during, and after the event.
Looking for upcoming nonprofit conferences where you can put these networking tips into practice? Explore upcoming in-person conferences in the U.S. and Canada.
Before the Event: Set Yourself Up for Comfortable, Meaningful Networking
Reframe Your Goals
Instead of aiming to meet as many people as possible, focus on making a few genuine connections. Quality beats quantity every time.
Ask yourself some questions to help guide you:
Who do I want to learn from?
What do I want to learn?
What types of roles or organizations am I curious about?
What would make this conference feel “worth it”?
Prepare for the Conference
Review the schedule and highlight sessions you’re interested in
Note any speakers or organizations you’d like to connect with
Prepare a simple, casual introduction
Example: “Hi, I’m [Name]. I work in [general area], and I’m really interested in [topic or challenge].”
During the Event: How to Network at a Conference Without Feeling Awkward
Use Questions as Your Conversation Starter
The easiest conversations start with questions, not statements:
What brought you to this conference?
Which session has been your favorite so far?
What kind of work do you do at your organization?
These feel natural, invite real dialogue, and take pressure off you to perform.
Joining Conversations Without the Cringe
Stand nearby, listen, and make eye contact
Jump in when there’s a natural pause
A simple “Mind if I join you?” goes a long way
Most people are relieved when someone else breaks the ice.
Gracefully Ending a Conversation
Not every conversation needs to be long.
Example: “It was great talking with you – I’m going to grab coffee before the next session, but I’d love to stay in touch.”
Networking is about momentum, you don’t have to have long, in-depth conversations.
Manage Your Energy
If you’re introverted or socially fatigued:
Take breaks between sessions
Step outside or find quiet spaces
Drink some water and eat a snack
Remember: stepping away and taking a break is not failing at networking and can help replenish your energy to network more effectively.
Make It Easy to Follow Up Later
A quick note in your notebook phone about why you connected or something you discussed can make follow-up much easier and natural.
If a conversation feels meaningful:
Mention something specific you discussed
Ask if they’re open to staying in touch
Connect on LinkedIn while it’s fresh
After the Event: The Art of the Follow-Up
Why Follow-Up Matters More Than the Conference Itself
Most conference connections fade because no one follows up. A quick message sets you apart and turns a brief interaction into the start of a relationship.
When and How to Follow Up
Aim to follow up within 3-7 days
Use email or LinkedIn, depending on how you connected
Avoid mass or generic messages
What to Say in a Follow-Up Message
Keep it short, personal, and human.
Simple follow-up structure:
Remind them where you met
Reference something specific you discussed
Express interest in staying connected
Optional: Add in your ask if you discussed something specific in-peron
Example (no ask): “Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [Conference]. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. I’d love to stay in touch and continue the conversation.”
Example (with an ask): “Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [Conference]. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. I’d love to stay in touch and continue the conversation about [topic].”
Staying Connected Without It Feeling Forced
Not every connection needs an immediate meeting. Here are some examples of casual, low-pressure ways to stay in touch:
Share an article or resource related to your conversation
Comment on or engage with their work online
Reconnect around future events or shared interests
Relationships grow through small, consistent touch points.
Conclusion: Networking Is a Long Game
You don’t have to be “good at networking” to build meaningful professional relationships. You just need to be present, curious, and willing to follow up.
Every conference is one moment in a larger professional ecosystem. When you approach networking with intention — before, during, and after the event — it becomes less awkward and far more impactful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Conference Networking
How do you network at a conference if you’re introverted?
Focus on one-on-one conversations, arrive early to sessions, and give yourself permission to take breaks. Thoughtful, active listening is a networking strength.
How many people should you try to meet at a conference?
A handful of meaningful connections is far more valuable than dozens of surface-level interactions.
How soon should you follow up after a conference?
Ideally within 3–7 days, while the conversation is still fresh.
What should you say in a conference follow-up email?
Reference where you met, mention something specific you discussed, and express interest in staying connected — without immediately asking for something.
Is LinkedIn a good place to follow up after an event?
Yes. LinkedIn is often the easiest and most natural way to continue a professional conversation after a conference.
How do I find a conference to attend?
A few simple ways to find conferences is to ask colleagues or search: conferences near me, conferences + the topic that interests you! The Nonprofit Learning Lab offers a hub where you can explore upcoming in-person conferences in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, many conferences now offer virtual or hybrid options if there are none near you and traveling isn’t an option.
Resources for Finding Nonprofit Conferences
Upcoming Conferences (in-person only - accepting submissions as well)
Best Nonprofit Conferences for Professional Development (in-person, virtual, and hybrid options)
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