How to Apply Communications Best Practices to Get the Most Out of Conferences

Ever since my colleagues and I got back from the Nonprofit Technology Conference (19NTC) last week, we’ve been reflecting on the experiences and takeaways that would be most valuable to share with you. But this isn’t just any old conference recap. Everything we do here at Cause is filtered through the lens of communications, so it’s only natural that our conference tips would be, too.

Here are four communications best practices you can use to make your next conference the most meaningful one yet.

1. Put strategy first. A few days before the conference begins, define what success looks like for you and your organization. Set some concrete goals and write them down. This is a great opportunity to try something new and stretch beyond your comfort zone. Are you an introvert? Try introducing yourself to three new people each day. About to lead a big project at your organization for the first time? Find other attendees who have done something similar and create a peer support group. Bonus: Your goals give you built-in conversation topics for all those networking receptions.

2. You can learn as much – or more – by listening. Conferences are a great place to share what cool new programs or campaigns are going on at your organization, but asking questions and listening can be just as exciting (and valuable!). Come in with an open mind and let your curiosity shine. You’re likely to be exposed to new and diverse perspectives on topics, and often the stories you hear will spark ideas for your own work. Case in point: I presented at 19NTC but learned so much in my own session when we gave participants a chance to share their wisdom and experience. We ended up with a post-it wall filled with awesome communications advice that I’m already putting into practice. (Hint: You can read the crowdsourced advice in our session’s Collaborative Notes.)

3. Internal communication is key. Stretch the benefits of the conference even further by sharing your newfound knowledge when you get back. Forward relevant, new tools to colleagues who weren’t able to attend. Better yet, build time into your next department meeting to discuss any “a-ha” moments and brainstorm how best to integrate new ideas into your work. Demonstrating that you – and your colleagues – are able to apply key takeaways from the conference is also a great way to help get next year’s event approved in your budget.

4. Give audiences meaningful ways to engage with your cause. Think about who else will be attending the conference and have one or two calls to action at the ready in case people you meet are interested in learning more about your organization. (Be sure your “ask” respects conference guidelines like “no solicitation” policies with funders.) I knew that 19NTC would be filled with nonprofit professionals who are smart and community-minded, so I offered those attendees with an interest in communications a chance to preview our updated and expanded Communications Toolkit.* As a result, we created a “win-win” based on shared values and mission alignment.

Do you have additional tips for how to maximize a conference experience? Share your thoughts on Twitter or Instagram and tag us using @CauseComm.

*Curious about the Communications Toolkit project? There’s still time to join our “First Look” team and provide feedback that will help shape this new resource. Use the form at the bottom of this page to sign up.