Ed.
note:
This
is
the
latest
in
a
series
providing
a
comprehensive
guide
to
networking
at
conferences. Read
the
previous
installment
here.
In
this
part
of
our
“Conquering
Conferences”
series,
we
focus
on
embracing
the
small
victories
and
soothing
the
inevitable
nerves
of
networking.
As
the
final
song
plays
in
our
metaphorical
ballroom,
let’s
reflect
on
the
steps
taken
and
the
rhythm
found.
Embracing
Small
Wins
Conferences,
much
like
a
high
school
dance,
can
stir
a
whirlpool
of
emotions,
including
anxiety
and
nervousness.
But
just
like
in
any
dance,
it’s
the
small
steps
and
the
individual
moments
that
create
the
most
memorable
experiences.
Celebrating
Every
Step
-
Each
interaction,
whether
it’s
a
brief
chat
or
a
longer
discussion,
is
a
step
forward
in
the
dance
of
networking.
Acknowledge
these
moments
as
successes
in
their
own
right. -
Just
like
learning
a
dance
routine,
the
first
steps
are
often
the
hardest.
Give
yourself
credit
for
every
attempt
to
connect,
no
matter
the
outcome.
Keeping
the
Rhythm
Light
-
Networking
is
not
about
flawless
performances
or
winning
a
popularity
contest.
It’s
about
finding
your
own
rhythm
and
enjoying
the
process
of
meeting
new
people. -
If
the
dance
floor
of
networking
feels
overwhelming,
remember
it’s
okay
to
take
a
break.
Step
aside,
catch
your
breath,
and
rejoin
when
you’re
ready.
Soothing
the
Stage
Fright
-
Feelings
of
anxiety
are
common
in
these
settings.
Use
calming
techniques
like
deep
breathing
or
focusing
on
the
present
moment
to
steady
your
nerves. -
Set
manageable
goals
for
yourself.
Whether
it’s
initiating
a
conversation
with
at
least
three
people
or
simply
attending
a
particular
session,
these
small
objectives
can
make
the
overall
experience
more
rewarding
and
less
daunting.
Looking
Back
on
Your
Performance
-
After
the
conference,
reflect
on
your
interactions.
Each
one
is
a
learning
opportunity
and
a
step
toward
becoming
more
at
ease
in
networking
scenarios. -
Celebrate
the
connections
you
made,
no
matter
how
small.
Networking
is
a
skill
that
improves
with
practice,
and
every
conference
is
a
chance
to
refine
your
approach
and
build
confidence.
Having
celebrated
our
small
wins
and
navigated
the
emotional
landscape
of
networking,
it’s
time
to
look
at
some
common
missteps
to
avoid.
Next
up,
we’ll
add
a
touch
of
humor
to
our
series
by
exploring
a
few
networking
faux
pas.
Enjoying
Small
Wins
✔️ Recognize
and
celebrate
each
interaction,
no
matter
how
brief.
✔️ Practice
calming
techniques
to
manage
anxiety
and
nervousness.
✔️ Set
achievable
goals
for
networking
and
acknowledge
your
efforts.
✔️ Reflect
on
your
experiences
and
learn
from
them,
building
confidence
over
time.
Sejal Patel is
the Founder
of
Sage
Ivy,
a
New
York-based
consultancy
specializing
in
empowering
attorneys
with
innovative
practice
development
strategies.
With
over
20
years
of
experience,
Sejal
applies
her
expertise
in
assisting
clients
convert
their
relationships
into
revenue
by
applying
individualized
strategies
to
their
networks
and
leveraging
their
unique
styles
authentically.