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Abacus Group is thrilled to be a part of the Accounting & Finance Show NY next week. The event that is hosted by Terrapinn, is taking place on July 11 and 12 at the Javits Center, New York City. It is the largest free accounting and finance conference and exhibition in the U.S. There is a lot to be gained from such an experience but it’s important to note that leveraging the resources and exposure from events like this can be difficult. Below are some tips on getting the most out of conferences and exhibitions.

1. Do Your Research

Just as you wouldn’t go to a restaurant without first looking up the menu or at the very least, the address and the best route to get there, you don’t want to show up to a conference or expo without doing some legwork beforehand. Some sessions may require prior registration. There may be topics covered that you know nothing about but still want to engage in lively discussion. Take a look at the speakers and what is on the agenda in order to equip yourself with talking points and questions. Think about what it is that you want to learn from the experience and prioritize the sessions you would like to attend. Do your research on these sessions and their hosts and you will be able to get more involved and therefore, have more takeaways.

2. Put Yourself Out There

Like any networking opportunity, it doesn’t pay to be a wallflower. In a 2015 interview with Inc. Mark Cuban stated, “You can accomplish much, much more with direct relationships than by using an intermediary.” Be confident but not self-serving. Relationships are two-way streets and as such, you want to make it clear that the relationship you wish to forge isn’t solely for your own gain but theirs too. Let them know what it is you bring to the table and find out what you can do for them. Don’t just rattle off your elevate pitch and them a business card, converse and find common ground. Actively listen and show interest. Be friendly but be professional.

3. Follow Up

Conferences and expos make for a great opportunity to network in the moment but the takeaways are only as good as you make them. If you made some worthwhile connections, follow up with these individuals. Email them inviting them to lunch or a coffee, connect with them on LinkedIn or where appropriate, send them a text message. You will be meeting a lot of new people, as is everyone else, so make sure your time there is meaningful and do the necessary work after the event to follow up and build on the foundation you already laid. Perhaps there was someone you didn’t get the chance to meet but you saw speak. Reach out to them and mention that you regrettably didn’t speak at the event but would love the chance to discuss what was spoken about over a coffee.

If you find yourself at the Accounting & Finance Show NY, feel free to visit us at booth 259 and let’s talk about how we can fulfill your staffing needs or perhaps find you your next opportunity in Accounting and Finance.