Using AI to Make the Most of Your Next Conference

Fall is often a busy season with conferences, events and annual meetings. Far too often we are pressed for time and struggle to make the most of events amid competing demands. As part of Wicker Park Group’s BD coaching series, we have developed suggestions, best practices and tips over the years for attending conferences. In an effort to utilize new tools, however, I suggested to an attorney during a recent coaching call that we ask AI for some pre-, during- and post-conference tips to make sure he had a comprehensive list. As we always say, “One size fits one,” but the AI-prompted list below is an excellent place to start if you are looking to make the most of your next event.

Pre-Conference Checklist

1. Set Goals
   • Define what you want to achieve (e.g., networking, learning about specific topics, finding new clients, etc.).
   • Identify key speakers, sessions and exhibitors that align with your goals or clients’ interests.
2. Research Attendees and Speakers
   • Review the list of attendees and speakers to identify key people you want to meet.
   • Look up their backgrounds on LinkedIn or through the conference app.
   • Prepare personalized introductions or conversation starters based on common interests.
   • Be aware of who is a current firm client and make outreach in advance if possible.
3. Prepare Elevator Pitch
   • Craft a 30-second introduction that clearly communicates who you are, what you do and what you’re looking to accomplish at the conference.
   • Tailor your pitch to different audiences (peers, potential clients, vendors, etc.).
4. Schedule Meetings and Plan Agenda
   • Book one-on-one meetings with attendees in advance, if possible.
   • Prioritize sessions to attend based on your goals and interests.
   • Block off time for networking, meals and exploration of the exhibit hall.
5. Bring Business Cards and Digital Alternatives
   • Pack business cards or use a digital business card app for easy sharing.
   • Consider any branded materials or swag to distribute, if relevant.
6. Prepare for Social Media Engagement
   • Follow the conference’s official social media accounts and hashtags.
   • Draft pre-conference posts to let your network know you’re attending.
   • Plan to engage during the event by posting insights or photos.
7. Set Up Travel and Logistics
   • Confirm your travel and accommodation details.
   • Check the conference location and facilities (e.g., Wi-Fi availability, dress code).
   • Pack essentials: phone charger, notebook, comfortable shoes and any necessary equipment.

During-Conference Checklist

1. Be Engaged and Attentive
   • Take notes during sessions, especially on actionable takeaways and industry trends.
   • Ask thoughtful questions during Q&A sessions to engage with speakers.
   • Participate in workshops, panels or breakout sessions to gain deeper insights.
2. Maximize Networking Opportunities
   • Actively introduce yourself to new people and join group discussions.
   • Attend networking events, dinners and informal gatherings.
   • Share contact information with potential clients, collaborators or vendors.
   • Remember to follow up with those you meet via LinkedIn or email.
3. Visit Exhibitors and Sponsors
   • Explore exhibitor booths to learn about new products, services or trends.
   • Collect brochures or materials that may be useful for future reference.
   • Engage in meaningful conversations with exhibitors to build relationships.
4. Document Key Learnings
   • Take photos of key slides, diagrams or moments.
   • Use a notebook or note-taking app to document important ideas, quotes and action items.
   • Organize your notes by topic or theme for easy reference later.
5. Engage on Social Media
   • Share key takeaways, insights or photos from the event using the event’s hashtag.
   • Tag speakers or colleagues to increase visibility and connect with others.
   • Live-tweet interesting points during sessions or panels.

Post-Conference Checklist

1. Organize and Review Notes
   • Review your notes and identify the most relevant takeaways.
   • Categorize ideas into action items, potential opportunities and useful insights.
2. Follow Up with Connections
   • Send personalized follow-up emails or LinkedIn messages to the people you met.
   • Express gratitude for their time and remind them of your conversation.
   • Mention any potential collaboration opportunities or next steps.
3. Share Insights with Your Team
   • Summarize key takeaways from the conference and share them with your team or firm.
   • Consider hosting a post-conference debrief meeting to discuss potential applications of new ideas or strategies.
4. Implement Action Items
   • Identify which insights or strategies you can implement immediately.
   • Assign tasks or projects based on what you’ve learned to improve processes, client service or business development.
5. Nurture New Relationships
   • Add key contacts to your CRM or networking database.
   • Plan follow-up meetings or calls to discuss potential collaborations or client work.
   • Stay in touch with new connections through occasional check-ins or value-driven emails (e.g., sharing an article they might find interesting).
6. Reflect on Your Goals
   • Evaluate how well you achieved the goals you set before the conference.
   • Analyze what went well and what could be improved for future events.
7. Post on Social Media
   • Share a final post about the conference, summarizing your experience and learnings.
   • Thank the conference organizers, speakers or new contacts in your posts.
8. Apply Learnings to Clients/Work
   • Share relevant insights or strategies with your clients to provide them with added value.
   • Adjust your client service approach based on best practices or ideas picked up at the conference.