22 Ways To Form Valuable Relationships at Conferences
"What’s the most valuable relationship you’ve formed as a result of attending a conference or trade show?" Here is what 22 thought leaders have to say.
Form Partnerships to Improve Services
Attending the Independent Insurance Agents of Ohio conference in Columbus was transformative for Stanley Insurance Group. I formed a relationship with an expert in risk management custom to community events. This collaboration allowed us to develop our "Commercial Special Event Insurance" offer, now a top service for local businesses in Hilliard, increasing our policy sales by 15%.
The partnership also refined our educational approach. The expert guided us in training clients about potential event risks, which improved client satisfaction and retention. This demonstrated the power of combining expertise with localized service to expand offerings and community trust.
If you're looking to grow, focus on finding partners who can improve your existing services or uncover new market needs. This strategy is beneficial for businesses aiming to deepen community ties while broadening their service portfolio.
Brandon Stanley, Business Owner, Stanley Insurance Group
Connect With Local Authorities
I once attended a regional construction expo where I met a city planner from Beaverton, Oregon. This connection was invaluable for understanding local zoning laws, which significantly improved our processes at RG ProBuilders. By aligning with the city's regulations more effectively, our permit approval times decreased by 30%, allowing us to expedite the start of ADU projects.
In one particular instance, this relationship helped us navigate a complex zoning issue for an ADU in a dense neighborhood. Our streamlined process not only reduced client frustrations but also saved them considerable resources. This experience emphasized how crucial it is to build relationships with local authorities to improve project efficiency.
For others in the construction field, leveraging industry events to connect with local officials can transform your business operations. These connections can simplify project complexities and improve your company's service delivery, turning regulatory problems into manageable tasks.
Richard Garrett, Managing Member, RG Construction Services, LLC
Listen to Understand Needs
As a UGC manager at Rathly, I've learned that conferences are the best place to connect with people who truly understand your work. At a recent event, I met a small business owner who was struggling with content creation. We had a great conversation about how a data-driven approach could make a huge difference for her brand. She trusted me with her vision, and from there, we developed a partnership that helped her grow her social media presence, bringing in new customers within a couple of months.
Listening is the most valuable part of building this relationship. It's easy to jump into pitching ideas, but listening closely gives you insight into what someone really needs. If you do that and show them real ways to solve their problems, the connection turns into something meaningful. It's all about delivering results that matter to them, and that's what builds trust in the long run.
Natalia Lavrenenko, UGC manager/Marketing manager, Rathly
Engage With Thought Leaders
I once attended a tech-focused conference in San Francisco, where I met a cybersecurity expert whose insights completely transformed our approach at Next Level Technologies. This partnership enabled us to fine-tune our cybersecurity protocols, resulting in a 30% reduction in potential breaches for our clients. By leveraging this knowledge, we've been able to better protect businesses, particularly in sectors like healthcare and finance, where data security is paramount.
This relationship also led to the development of a bespoke training program for our clients, to improve their internal cybersecurity awareness. As a result, we've seen a marked increase in client satisfaction ratings, reflecting the trust they've placed in us to safeguard their operations. For others looking to form valuable connections, engage with thought leaders who can complement your service offerings and improve outcomes for your clientele.
Steve Payerle, President, Next Level Technologies
Invest in Face-to-Face Interactions
Attending dessert and food industry expos has been pivotal for my business, Vampire Penguin Marietta. At one trade show, I met a supplier who specializes in high-quality natural syrups for toppings. This connection allowed us to introduce a new line of health-conscious shaved snow options, which resulted in a 15% increase in customer visits in two months. Another key relationship was formed with a local marketing expert I met while attending a community networking event. She helped us rebrand our social media presence with creative campaigns highlighting our seasonal shaved snow flavors. This collaboration led to a 35% boost in our online engagement and expanded our customer base significantly. These experiences taught me that investing time in face-to-face interactions at conferences isn't just about gathering business cards; it's about genuine connections that can drive innovation and growth in unique ways.
Divy Patel, Business Owner, Vampire Penguin Marietta
Build Natural, Trust-Based Relationships
Some of the best relationships I've built in my career have been at marketing conferences. One instance that sticks out is a casual chat during a networking break at a digital marketing conference. I connected with someone curating content for an online publication big in my industry. We had a friendly chat about mutual interests but kept in touch afterward.
That connection gradually developed into a win-win partnership. Suddenly, I was writing in their guest post section, and they helped me gain a lot of visibility and credibility in the industry. I then offered to connect them with other professionals in my network, expanding their potential contributor pool.
The most powerful relationships I have are the ones that start naturally. This isn't a hard sell on you or your services - it's about listening, establishing a common ground, and building trust. So, when you go to conferences, my advice is to be intentional but relaxed about how you network. Just let it happen. Quality over quantity (and thoughtful post-event follow-up): Those authentic connections will open doors you weren't expecting.
Jake Maslow, Owner, Teachers Instruction
Seek Complementary Business Partnerships
Attending industry events has always been a key strategy for forming valuable connections. One of the most impactful relationships I've developed was at a medical technology expo in Sao Paulo. There, I met a fellow entrepreneur who ran a software company specializing in AI solutions for healthcare.
This connection opened the door for a collaboration that integrated their AI platform into our diagnostic imaging services. The partnership not only improved our operational efficiency but also resulted in a 30% increase in client satisfaction due to faster and more accurate diagnoses.
For those looking to replicate this success, focus on events relevant to your industry where you can meet complementary businesses. Look for partnerships that can directly improve your product offerings, as this can lead to substantial growth and innovation.
Victor Santoro, Founder & CEO, Profit Leap
Solve Real-World Challenges Together
One of the most valuable relationships I've formed at a conference resulted from a serendipitous conversation during a networking break. I connected with an organizer of industry-specific summits who was struggling with the logistical complexity of hybrid events. That initial chat led to a collaborative partnership where we worked on streamlining their event processes, particularly by offering insights on how to create a seamless experience for both virtual and in-person attendees. The relationship didn't just enhance my understanding of hybrid event dynamics-it also helped shape features that better served small to mid-sized organizations hosting recurring events. It's a great reminder that sometimes, the most significant opportunities come from listening to someone's real-world challenges and figuring out solutions together.
Benjamin Dell, Founder & CEO, HeySummit
Collaborate on Content Creation
One of the most valuable relationships I formed was during a digital marketing conference where I connected with an influential blogger in the SEO industry. This meeting evolved into a content collaboration, where we co-authored a series of SEO best practice guides.
The partnership not only increased our website's domain authority by 25% through high-quality backlinks but also positioned TWINCITY.COM as a thought leader in our niche. This collaboration led to a 40% increase in inquiries from businesses looking for our digital PR services.
For others seeking similar outcomes, look for complementary industry experts at conferences who can amplify your brand's message. Building relationships that allow content co-creation can result in significant brand growth and improved online presence.
Clayton Johnson TCM, Owner, Twin City Marketing
Align With Growth-Oriented Partners
One of the most valuable relationships I've formed was at a startup expo in Austin. I connected with a fintech startup seeking guidance on scaling their marketing. We collaborated to create a data-driven content strategy that increased their lead conversion rate by 40% within six months.
This partnership wasn't just transactional but was built on mutual trust and a shared vision for growth. We adapted our integrated marketing tactics to improve their brand reputation and customer engagement.
The key takeaway from this experience is the importance of aligning with partners who share your values and complement your strengths. By staying open to collaboration, you can turn these relationships into powerful catalysts for both innovation and growth.
Harps Mangat, Founder & CMO, One Rawr
Co-Develop Industry-Specific Solutions
One of the most valuable relationships I formed was at the ITExpo in Miami, where I connected with a regional telecommunications provider interested in exploring cloud-based solutions. This partnership led us to co-develop an integrated communication platform custom for the hospitality industry. By combining our feature-rich voice solutions with their local insight, we were able to offer seamless communication experiences for several hotels, resulting in a 20% increase in guest satisfaction scores within a year.
This collaboration underscored the importance of aligning with partners who share a mutual understanding of industry needs. By prioritizing strategic partnerships, I could leverage our combined resources and expertise to deliver innovative communication solutions, ultimately enhancing our service offerings and client outcomes.One of the most valuable relationships I formed was at the ITExpo in Miami, where I connected with a regional telecommunications provider interested in exploring cloud-based solutions. This partnership led us to co-develop an integrated communication platform custom for the hospitality industry. By combining our feature-rich voice solutions with their local insight, we were able to offer seamless communication experiences for several hotels, resulting in a 20% increase in guest satisfaction scores within a year.
This collaboration underscored the importance of aligning with partners who share a mutual understanding of industry needs. By prioritizing strategic partnerships, I could leverage our combined resources and expertise to deliver innovative communication solutions, ultimately enhancing our service offerings and client outcomes.
Amber Bigler Newman, Director of Marketing, Phone.com
Strengthen Team Bonds
When thinking about valuable relationships formed at a conference, most people probably think of clients, vendors, or mentors. But for me, it was the bond I built with my own team. Early in my current position, I attended a conference with several team members, and the experience was invaluable for getting to know them on a personal level.
The change of scenery and extra time spent together allowed for conversations that wouldn't typically happen during the workday. It strengthened our collaboration and fostered friendships that made work more enjoyable and productive. When you know your coworkers care about you as a person, it's easier to communicate, solve problems, and tackle challenges together. That conference wasn't just about professional growth—it was the foundation for a stronger team.
Alyssa DiCrasto, Brand Manager, Rate Retriever
Leverage Design and Storytelling
One of the most valuable relationships I formed was at the DesignThinkers Conference in Toronto. I first met Alex, the founder of an emerging sustainable fashion brand, there. Our connection quickly sparked a creative partnership when I was able to help them solve a design challenge using a narrative-led brand strategy that Ankord Media is known for.
This collaboration resulted in a complete brand refresh that resonated with their ethos and attracted a 30% increase in customer engagement, based on analytics reports. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of design and storytelling to inspire change, a core principle that we uphold at Ankord Media. Engaging with like-minded entrepreneurs at such events can truly pivot one's business strategies and drive impactful results.
One of the most valuable relationships I formed came during a branding and design conference in New York. I connected with a visionary startup founder who was struggling with brand positioning in a saturated market. Our exchange led to a collaboration through Ankord Media, where we applied our expertise in strategic branding and cutting-edge design to help them revamp their entire digital presence.
This partnership not only liftd their brand identity but also resulted in a 40% increase in client engagement and a 20% growth in their market reach within six months. By focusing on authentic storytelling and customer comnections, we were able to translate their bold ideas into tangible success.
To replicate similar success, focus on conferences where your expertise can solve a genuine problem for others. Look for opportunities to blend your skills with complementary businesses to create substantial growth and innovative solutions.
Milan Kordestani, CEO, Ankord Media
Integrate Advanced Technologies
Attending security industry conferences has been a goldmine of valuable relationships for me. One standout connection was made at the ISC West event in Las Vegas, where I met a developer specializing in AI analytics. This encounter led us to integrate their AI capabilities into our perimeter protection systems. This collaboration dramatically increased the efficiency and effectiveness of our security solutions, resulting in a 20% increase in client adoption rates within gated communities.
The key takeaway for others would be to actively seek out partners who can improve your existing offerings. My experience shows that integrating new technologies can help address specific client needs, leading to increased satisfaction and retention. Always be on the lookout at these events for tech partners who can add value to your core services. Attending a security industry trade show in Las Vegas, I connected with a company specializing in AI-driven analytics for security systems. This relationship helped transform our offerings at Security Camera King by integrating advanced analytics into our cameras, allowing our clients to benefit from features like facial recognition and behavioral analytics. This has enabled us to provide more precise and valuable insights for businesses looking to optimize their security strategies.
Working with this partner, we implemented a pilot program for a large retail chain that resulted in a 40% decrease in shoplifting incidents. The shop was able to identify and respond to security threats more quickly, improving their overall security and customer satisfaction. This collaboration demonstrated the value of AI in enhancing traditional surveillance, ensuring more comprehensive security solutions.
To anyone looking to form impactful connections, I recommend seeking partnerships that can improve or extend your existing product capabilities, especially those offering cutting-edge technology that addresses specific needs in your industry. These partnerships can lead to innovative solutions that significantly impact your business and clientele.
Brad Besner SCK, President, Security Camera King
Optimize Digital Asset Management
During a digital asset management conference, I forged a valuable relationship with a senior executive from Tesla. This connection was pivotal when we collaborated on optimizing their extensive digital asset library. By implementing AI-driven DAM solutions, we drastically improved their asset findability and reduced content retrieval time by over 40%.
This collaboration showcased how efficient DAM systems could directly translate into operational cost savings and improved marketing agility for a brand as innovative as Tesla. For those attending conferences, focus on identifying partners whose operational challenges align with your expertise. Engage them with concrete strategies and data-driven solutions, as I've found this approach critical for building impactful partnerships.
Maxwell Mabe, Vice President Product Marketing, Aprimo
Simplify Compliance Processes
Building a relationship at the NRF Big Show in New York was pivotal for us at MPS. There, I connected with a fintech startup focused on simplifying PCI compliance. This collaboration led to the development of our PCI Plus Program, a game-changer for many of our clients, simplifying their compliance processes and ensuring significant savings in both time and money.
This partnership not only improved our service offering but also reinforced our commitment to making secure payment processing accessible and hassle-free. Our clients have seen real benefits, including fewer administrative duties and financial protection against potential breaches. For any business attending conferences, looking for partnerships that complement and lift your existing solutions can open new avenues for growth and innovation while enhancing trust with your clients. Attending the Payments and Fintech Expo last year was a game-changer for me. I met a representative from Nautilus Hyosung, one of the leading ATM brands we partner with. This connection directly led to improved deals and product offerings for our clients, significantly boosting our ATM solutions' competitiveness.
Through this partnership, we integrated cutting-edge ATM technology that reduced operational costs and increased transaction efficiency for businesses. This resulted in a 40% rise in surcharge revenues for some of our clients. Such strategic connections can revolutionize service offerings and drive substantial business growth.
For others in the payment services industry, forging strong partnerships with top-tier suppliers or brands at expos can open up new revenue streams and improve client satisfaction. It's essential to actively seek out these high-value contacts to lift your business operations.
Lydia Valberg, Co-President, Merchant Payment Services
Enhance Employee Engagement
One of the most valuable relationships I've formed was at a leadership and growth conference. I met an HR strategist from a Fortune 500 company who was intrigued by our Give River platform. We discussed the transformative effects of employee engagement and wellness on productivity, a topic backed by Gallup's findings on workplace dynamics. This connection allowed us to collaboratively pilot a custom version of our 5G Method in their teams, leading to a noticeable 18% increase in employee satisfaction within three months. This success story was shared at a subsequent conference, further enhancing both our reputations. For those looking to replicate such outcomes, focus on leveraging your unique expertise to address specific organizational pain points at these events. Authentic connections often lead to opportunities for co-creation that benefit both parties substantially.One of the most valuable relationships I formed was at the Global Leadership Summit, where I met a fellow advocate for emotional intelligence in the workplace. This connection led us to co-develop a series of workshops integrating Positive Intelligence that improved emotional resilience among employees. By incorporating these workshops into the Give River platform, we've seen quantifiable boosts in team morale and productivity, with clients reporting a 28% improvement in employee retention over six months. This partnership illustrates the power of shared vision in fostering growth and innovation within workplace culture, using emotional intelligence as a transformative tool. For anyone looking to strengthen their network, focus on aligning with people who share your mission and can contribute to developing holistic well-being tools.
Meghan Calhoun, Co-Founder & Director of Partner Success, Give River
Collaborate on Innovative Ideas
One of the most valuable relationships I formed was with members of the open-source community at AstriCon 2016. Events like AstriCon allow for collaboration and sharing of innovative ideas, which are critical in an industry that's rapidly evolving with technologies like APIs and SIP trunking. This collaboration not only helps in personal growth but also in understanding customer needs better.
At AstriCon, interacting with Asterisk developers who leverage platforms like Flowroute to create more connected customer experiences has been profoundly beneficial. These interactions highlight how integrating communication services can transform business engagement strategies.
Such mutual exchanges of knowledge and experience have directly influenced how we approach product development and customer service at Flowroute. They’ve provided insights into building platforms that meet the needs for simple, resilient communication solutions, ultimately strengthening our service offerings.
Paula Como Kauth, Chief Marketing Officer, Flowroute
Integrate IT Systems With Construction
One of the most valuable relationships I've formed was during a construction technology expo where I connected with a forward-thinking tech innovator. We both saw the potential in integrating IT systems with construction processes, leading to a collaboration that improved project efficiency at Herts Roofing & Construction.
Through this partnership, we implemented a digital project management system that cut our project completion times by 15%. This system allowed for real-time updates and streamlined communication, which, in turn, improved client satisfaction significantly.
To achieve similar results, I recommend identifying synergies between your field and another industry. Look for alliances that can introduce technology or processes that offer tangible improvements to your operations.
At a construction and technology conference in New York, I connected with a leader in sustainable construction materials. This connection led to a collaborative project that involved integrating eco-friendly roofing materials into Herts Roofing & Construction's offerings. As a result, we saw a 20% increase in customer inquiries about sustainable options, showing a direct impact on our market reach.
Another memorable relationship was formed during a writers' workshop in Los Angeles, where I met an editor from a leading architecture magazine. This connection allowed me to contribute several articles, one of which brought significant traffic to our company's blog, enhancing brand visibility and credibility in the construction industry.
These experiences underline the value of diversifying connections across fields and leveraging those relationships for mutual growth and innovation. Attending events allows for these unexpected yet invaluable partnerships that can transform opportunities and improve business strategies.
Jimmy Hertilien, Senior Project Manager, Herts Roofing & Construction
Form Strategic Partnerships
As a Director of Marketing in an affiliate network, the most valuable relationships formed at conferences center on strategic partnerships with affiliates and advertisers. Such interactions build trust and credibility, enhancing the potential for long-term collaboration. Additionally, these events provide networking opportunities with a diverse array of industry players, which can drive traffic, conversions, and revenue, ultimately benefiting all parties involved.
Michael Kazula, Director of Marketing, Olavivo
Improve Security Service Offerings
One of the most valuable relationships I formed was at the Black Hat conference while engaging with experts in network security. I connected with the product team from a pioneering firm in cybersecurity analytics. The discussions we had on threat intelligence deeply influenced how we approach managed network security at ETTE.
This relationship allowed us to improve our security service offerings through better data analysis and integration of cutting-edge solutions, leading to significant improvements in our clients' security postures. We even collaborated on several projects that effectively reduced incident response times and improved overall threat detection capabilities.
Such partnerships underscore ETTE's commitment to leveraging industry relationships to deliver custom IT solutions. It's always about understanding the trends and challenges, and this partnership helped us stay ahead of the curve in providing high-quality, reliable security services.
Lawrence Guyot, President, ETTE
Boost Business Growth Through Connections
Attending conferences and trade shows can significantly boost business growth through valuable relationships. For instance, a manager who meets a senior executive at a digital marketing conference may establish a partnership that benefits both parties. The tech company accesses a broader audience via the manager's network, while the manager's organization gains innovative marketing tools. Thus, strategic connections formed at these events can lead to substantial mutual advantages.
Mohammed Kamal, Business Development Manager, Olavivo
