Networking Tips & Tricks

Take care of logistics early:

• Secure funding through your institution, a sponsoring organization, or scholarship opportunities

• Register early and arrange transportation and hotel accommodations

• Begin reviewing the agenda and sign up for workshops or special sessions

Clarify your networking goals:

• What do you hope to develop—research, clinical, or educational skills?

• How can networking support your career advancement?

• What’s the best way to share your work and receive feedback?

Boost your networking potential:

• Identify and reach out to individuals in your field or areas of interest before the meeting

• Review your colleagues’ recent work and schedule time to connect in person

• Prepare a brief introduction or “elevator speech” about your work

• Sign up for SGIM mentoring to meet with a mentor or attend a mentoring panel

• Update your profile in the conference app and don’t forget to pack business cards!

Get ready to present:
If your submission was accepted:

• Gather feedback from colleagues

• Practice your talk or poster ahead of time

• Finalize your materials and remember to bring your poster (or arrange for on-site pickup)

• Upload your slides to the speaker ready room at least three hours before your session (ideally the day before)

Present with confidence:

• Arrive early to your session and check the AV setup

• Deliver your presentation clearly and confidently

• Stay afterward to answer questions and connect with attendees

Engage with the SGIM community:

• Join interest groups, breakfast or lunchtime sessions, and networking events

• Use the conference app to message attendees and expand your network

• Participate in social media conversations using the conference hashtag (e.g., #SGIMAnnualMeeting)

• Take notes on who you meet and jot down follow-up plans

Practice self-care:

• Prioritize meals, sleep, and physical activity

• Dress comfortably but professionally (hotel rooms can be chilly!)

• Have a general schedule, but leave room for spontaneous opportunities and new connections

Support and celebrate others:

• Attend sessions led by colleagues and promote their work

• Introduce yourself to presenters and follow up afterward

• Explore sessions beyond your focus—you never know what will spark your next idea

Send thank-you notes:

• Acknowledge those who supported your attendance

Update your CV:

• Add your presentations, attendance, and volunteer roles

Share your experience:

• Post conference photos and highlights with your home institution or network

Follow up with new connections:

• Reach out to colleagues you met—send a quick note or propose a follow-up conversation

• Explore collaboration ideas or shared interests

Plan your next steps:

• Reflect on your goals and plan for future growth

• Consider submitting a publication or volunteering for an SGIM committee