Attending conferences is an invaluable opportunity to network, learn, and showcase your expertise. Recently, our team had the privilege of attending the OnRamp Education & Workforce Innovation Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, hosted by gener8tor and ECMC Group. We're eager to share the powerhouse strategies we've mastered to supercharge your networking, learning, and expert positioning—before, during, and after the event.

Here are our top tips:

Before the conference

• Prepare Your Elevator Pitch

  Before attending the conference, spend time crafting a clear and concise elevator pitch. Your pitch should succinctly describe who you are, what you do, and why it matters. Practice it until it feels natural and authentic, so you can confidently deliver it to anyone you meet.

• Design an Eye-Catching Display

  When attending a conference, your stand and banners create a powerful first impression. Keep your banner designs simple and focused, using bold visuals and clear messaging that align with your brand identity. Make sure your slogan or key message is prominent and easy to read from a distance.

Appli banners, prepared for the OnRamp Education & Workforce Innovation Conference

At the conference

• Engage in Meaningful Conversations

  Instead of sticking to surface-level conversations, dive deeper. Ask thoughtful questions and genuinely listen to the answers. Showing a genuine interest in others' work and sharing your own insights can lead to more meaningful connections and potential collaborations.

• Participate in Workshops and Panels

  Actively participate in workshops and panel discussions. Ask questions, share your experiences, and contribute to the dialogue. This not only helps you gain knowledge but also positions you as an engaged and knowledgeable participant.

After the conference

• Leverage Social Media

  Share your conference experience on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Use relevant hashtags such as #EdTech and #EmpoweringStudents to join the conversation and increase your visibility. Post photos, insights, and key takeaways to engage with your network and reach a wider audience.

Dante' Hilton, Founder and CEO and of Appli at the OnRamp Education & Workforce Innovation Conference

• Follow Up and Stay Connected

  After the conference, follow up with the people you met. Send personalized messages thanking them for the conversation and expressing your interest in staying connected. Building and maintaining relationships is key to long-term success in any industry.

A Gratitude Note

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made the OnRamp Education & Workforce Innovation Conference a success. The spirit of collaboration and innovation was truly inspiring, and we were honored to be part of such a dynamic event.