medspa mastery logoSubscribe to The Medspa Mastery Report: The Go-To Hub for News, Tools, and Growth in the Aesthetic Industry.

💉 Ohio Doctors Disciplined Amid Rising Concerns Over Weight-Loss Drug Practices| 💡 CDC Investigating Botox related illnesses in Tennessee and Illinois | 🍃 TEXAS Bill Authorizes Cosmetic Injections for Dentists| Journey Medical's Emrosi Rosacea Pill Receives FDA Approval | Merz Studay Reveals Aesthetic Procedures Impact Self-View | 💡 Evolus Prepares to launch Evolysse™ ahead of schedule | 🛑 Ohio Doctors Disciplined Amid Rising Concerns Over Weight-Loss Drug Practices | 🟤 NORTH DAKOTA Bill Would License Advanced Estheticians | 🚨 TEXAS Bill Authorizes Cosmetic Injections for Dentists | Skinbetter Science Launching New Face and Neck Treatment Cream | 💉 Flawless Medspa & Wellness Joins Alpha Aesthetics Partners'| 🍃 Remembering Dr. Loretta Ford - Co-founder of the Nurse Practitioner | 🟤 NORTH DAKOTA Bill Would License Advanced Estheticians| Skinbetter Science Launching New Face and Neck Treatment Cream |

Networking at conferences can feel intimidating, especially if you’re introverted or attending alone. But conferences are one of the best ways to build meaningful relationships, learn from industry leaders, and grow your career or business. If you’ve ever wondered how to network without being awkward, how to start conversations when you don’t know anyone, or how to make your interactions count, this post has you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk through actionable strategies for every type of attendee—whether you’re an introvert, a solo attendee, or someone looking to refine your networking game.

Key Strategies for Successful Networking at a Conference

1. Update Your LinkedIn Profile Before Attending Events

While Instagram and Facebook are great for engaging with clients and showcasing your work,

LinkedIn is where professional connections are solidified.

Before attending any event, ensure your LinkedIn profile is current and polished.

  • Add a professional profile photo and update your headline to reflect your expertise.
  • Include recent projects, collaborations, or certifications in the ‘Featured’ section.
💡

Pro Tip:

Connect with people you meet at events on LinkedIn right away while they still remember you!

2. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

It’s easy to stay within your comfort zone, especially if you’re attending an event with your team. However, real networking happens when you branch out and talk to new people.

Don’t stay in your team bubble:

Make a conscious effort to break away and meet other attendees, speakers, and exhibitors.

Attend diverse sessions:

If you’re a provider or injector, don’t skip the business or marketing talks. Deepening your understanding of practice management and growth will make you more well-rounded and valuable in the long run.

Don’t be shy—everyone is just a person:

Remember, everyone is there for the same reason—to learn and connect. Approach people with confidence and curiosity.

What’s Your Networking Style?

Answer these 3 quick questions to discover your networking style and get personalized tips!

1. How do you feel about starting a conversation with someone new?



2. What’s your primary goal when attending a conference?



3. How do you follow up after meeting someone?



3. How Do You Network If You’re Alone?

Networking solo can actually be an advantage—you’re more approachable and flexible than those in a group.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

Join Group Conversations:

Look for groups of three or more people chatting. Approach with a smile, listen for a bit, and join in when there’s a natural opening.

Attend Interactive Sessions:

Workshops and breakout sessions provide natural opportunities to engage with others through shared tasks or discussions.

Leverage Social Media:

Before and during the event, use the conference hashtag on LinkedIn or Twitter to find others attending. Send a message to someone you want to meet and suggest grabbing coffee.

💡

Example message:

“Hi [Name], I saw you’ll be at [Conference]. I’d love to connect and hear your thoughts on [specific topic]. Let me know if you’re up for coffee during one of the breaks!”

4. Adopt a ‘Give, Give, Give’ Mindset

Networking is about providing value before expecting anything in return.

This mindset helps you build trust and long-lasting relationships. Here’s how you can give value at events:

Share kudos and highlights:

If you found a presentation valuable, take a photo (with permission), share your key takeaways, and tag the speaker.

Level up with thoughtful content:

Instead of typical group selfies, share candid moments or insightful quotes from speakers or attendees. Add context or your own thoughts to make it more meaningful.

💡

Example post idea:

"Loved this insight from [Speaker’s Name]: 'Client experience starts before they ever step through your door.' Great panel at #AestheticNext!"

5. Be the Connector

One of the most underutilized ways to build your personal brand at events is by being the connector.

Introducing people you know to each other increases your value in the eyes of both parties.

Why it works:

People remember the person who helped them make valuable connections, and they’re likely to return the favor.

How to do it:

If you see someone standing alone, invite them into your conversation. If you meet someone looking for a specific service, introduce them to someone who can help.

a bunch of people standing around talking and holding drinks at a conference

6. Leverage Social Media, But Be Intentional

Social media is a great tool for post-event engagement, but use it intentionally:

Engage with other attendees’ posts:

Comment with meaningful insights or questions.

Follow up by tagging new connections:

Share your experience at the event and tag people you met. This helps solidify those connections and increases your visibility.

💡

Pro Tip:

Use event hashtags to join the broader conversation and increase your reach

7. How Do You Start a Conversation Without Sounding Awkward?

The fear of awkward moments is real, but you can minimize it by being prepared:

Warm Up Before Diving In:

Start small by talking to exhibitors or fellow attendees in low-pressure settings like coffee lines. This helps you ease into the flow of conversations.

Use Simple Conversation Starters:

Try openers like “What session are you most excited about?” or “Is this your first time at this conference?” These are neutral and easy for anyone to answer.

Focus on Listening:

People appreciate a good listener. Ask questions, show genuine interest, and let the conversation flow naturally.

8. Follow Up with a Personal Touch

Don’t let your connections go cold. After the event, follow up with a brief and personalized message.

  • Reference something specific from your conversation.
  • Share any promised resources or links quickly.
  • Keep track of your contacts in a simple spreadsheet or CRM.
💡

Pro Tip:

Even a quick LinkedIn message or Instagram DM thanking them for their time can go a long way.

9. Host or Join Local Networking Groups

If you don’t live near a major city, create your own opportunities by starting a local networking group. Hosting informal meetups at your medspa or a local venue can help you build stronger connections and position yourself as a community leader.


10. Collaborate on Events or Promotions

Don’t let networking end after the event. Follow up by proposing a collaboration, such as co-hosting an educational workshop, creating a referral program, or partnering on a promotion.

3 people at an after hours cocktail event at a conference

Final Thought: Build Relationships, Not Just Contacts

Whether you’re attending alone or with a team, the key to effective networking is to be intentional, curious, and generous. Approach people with an open mind, listen more than you talk, and don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. Over time, you’ll build a valuable network that supports your professional growth.


CTA:

Want more actionable tips on growing your professional network? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly insights on industry events, career development, and actionable strategies!