How to network at a virtual conference
One of the best things about a conference is those impromptu meetings and introductions with new people – standing in a coffee line, an evening event, hangout sessions, or just wandering around the expo.
Think virtual events lack this spontaneity? Think again. Virtual first bumps are the new handshake, and we’ll have lots of them at EuroSTAR Online! Here’s how to make the most of networking opportunities at EuroSTAR.
Let people know you’re attending
First thing’s first: get the news out there that you’re attending Europe’s #1 test event! This is a great way to attract your peers who are also attending. Share it on your blog, attend our event on LinkedIn, and share across your social media channels. Want to win a prize? Download & share this graphic with the hashtag #EuroSTARConf on LinkedIn or Twitter and the 2 people with the most likes or comments will win €50 Amazon vouchers each.
Establish your goals
You need to be more intentional about networking in a virtual environment – but it’s well worth a little extra effort. A lot of the stress of a live event is gone, such as traveling and rushing to sessions, so it leaves more time for meaningful conversations. Make a list of your networking goals to help you focus your efforts and figure out where and how to invest your time,.
Here’s a couple to start you off:
- I will introduce myself to at least five new people
- I will swap my contact details with ten attendees
Get busy on social media
During the conference, use the hashtag #EuroSTARConf on Twitter and Facebook, and post your thoughts on sessions, share screengrabs of your favourite talks or events, and chat with other attendees.
Share your insights in Q&A sessions
Our keynotes and talks are a perfect opportunity for you to get involved in discussions with other attendees. Showcase your expertise by actively engaging with attendees and presenters during our live Q&A sessions. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and get involved.
Try speed meeting
Our speed meet event lets you meet people for a 3 minute chat. Simply enter the speed meeting room and click to start chatting. Exchange details so that you can continue talking in 1:1 video chats on the platform if you run out of time and want to keep chatting – something that happens regularly to our attendees!
Join AMAs with speakers
We have exciting Ask Me Anything sessions with some of the best minds in testing. This is your chance to chat to keynotes Michael Bolton, Abby Bangser, Ronald Cummings-John, and ask them your burning questions!
Join the Huddle networking lounge for games and chats
The Huddle area is the beating heart of EuroSTAR: an all-inclusive community space to work together, share knowledge and fulfill your potential. Chat to some of the best testing minds, solve problems, test your security testing skills at our Shadow Bank challenge, play games, or just hang out.
Attend the Test Lab and Test Clinic
Our test doctors Russell and Dorota will be on hand for 1:1 sessions and open clinics to solve all your testing problems. Make an appointment at the test clinic here! Chat with like-minded people who might have the same problem as you – and are just as excited to have a solution. The Test Lab is back with some challenging games – get your thinking caps on! Join us for Dice game, Black stories and lots more.
Set aside the time
This is your time to invest in yourself, and your career. Make sure you’ve blocked off time in your calendar for the whole 3 days, including time after sessions to chat with new connections. Get comfortable and have lots of water, coffee, and snacks on hand, with as little distraction as possible.
Haven’t got your ticket yet? It all kicks off in less than a week! Book your ticket now.