AfroTech Conference 2022 is right around the corner and our friends at LinkedIn are here with the ins and outs of leaving the highly-anticipated conference with tips on how to maximize your time while extending your network.
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For some attendees, their goals are to walk away with something that either jumpstarts their career, helps them to make a career transition, or propels them into the executive role of their dreams.
Thankfully, LinkedIn Career Expert Drew McCaskill sat down with AfroTech with tips and tricks that are sure to help you walk away with a connection that changes your life.
First things first, McCaskill stresses the importance of being intentional about what you want to receive out of the conference before hopping on the plane, train, or whatever travel method will get you to Austin, TX.
Pre-AfroTech Checklist
- Put together a plan.
- Have a list of at least five companies you want to connect with.
- Do your research.
- Put together your story and think about how you will introduce yourself.
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Attending conferences can sometimes feel daunting, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that it has to be.
In a world where first impressions are everything, McCaskill has pointers for how to ease into introducing yourself to a prospective employer, mentor, or what have you.
5 Questions To Ask Yourself To Ensure You Make A Connection
- Who am I? This is your elevator pitch.
- What are my skills? This is your chance to show that you are an asset to companies.
- Why am I here? This details what you are seeking.
- How can I connect? This allows you to directly connect. (Tip: Use the QR code on your LinkedIn).
- Are we linked in? Follow-up.
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He pointed out to remember that this encounter is not a date. Therefore, be aware of timing, because you often have a very brief amount of time to get your point across before taking the time to listen to whomever you’re meeting with.
“Be interview ready when you go in because you’re not there for T-shirts and water bottles. Have that conversation, get that name and contact information to follow up for future opportunities, and from there, set out to work the rest of the conference floor,” McCaskill added.
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Networking Is Key
The power of networking should never be underestimated, and McCaskill put an emphasis on the importance of tapping into your own personal network.
“Networking is really, really important because you may connect to me and I don’t have an opportunity for you, but I may know someone else who might be the plug,” McCaskill shared. “So, if you know me and you make me feel like you’re a good person, someone who is hungry and interested, you now know my friend who’s plugged in. Networking exponentially increases your ability to connect to opportunity.”
It’s obvious that you should network as much as possible when you touch down in Austin, but here are some more dos as well as don’ts.
Last Pieces Of Advice From Drew McCaskill
- Do your research.
- Do recognize that you are in rare air.
- Do be prepared and be specific.
- Don’t think that the only great opportunities are at the biggest companies.
- Don’t forget that you are at work.
- Don’t forget to follow up.
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AfroTech Conference 2022 Tickets
The largest Black tech conference of the year is almost here!
If you haven’t grabbed your ticket yet, be sure to grab your ticket to network with fellow afro-technologists, innovators, investors, artists, and more, by clicking here.
