What are the most important conferences to attend when pursuing a career in technological innovation?

1 Identify your niche

Technological innovation is a broad and diverse field that encompasses many disciplines, industries, and applications. Before you start looking for conferences, you need to define your niche and your interests. Are you more into software, hardware, or both? Do you focus on a specific sector, such as health, education, or entertainment? Do you have a preferred methodology, such as agile, lean, or design thinking? Knowing your niche will help you narrow down your options and find the conferences that match your profile and needs.

2 Research the agenda

Once you have a list of potential conferences, you need to research their agenda and see what topics, speakers, and sessions they offer. You want to attend conferences that cover the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in your niche, and that provide opportunities for learning, interaction, and feedback. Look for conferences that have a balance of keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and demos, and that feature experts, practitioners, and innovators from different backgrounds and perspectives. You also want to check the level of difficulty and the target audience of each conference, and make sure they suit your skills and experience.

3 Consider the format

Another factor to consider when choosing conferences is the format and the mode of delivery. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many conferences have shifted to online or hybrid models, which have their pros and cons. Online conferences can be more accessible, affordable, and flexible, but they may also lack the personal touch and the networking opportunities of in-person events. Hybrid conferences can offer the best of both worlds, but they may also pose some logistical and technical challenges. You need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each format, and decide what works best for you and your budget.

4 Plan ahead

Once you have selected the conferences you want to attend, you need to plan ahead and prepare yourself for the best possible experience. You need to register early, book your travel and accommodation if necessary, and schedule your time and activities. You also need to set your goals and expectations, and think about what you want to learn, share, and achieve at each conference. You may want to prepare some questions, comments, or pitches for the speakers, moderators, or other attendees, and have your business cards, portfolio, or resume ready. You also want to follow the conference on social media, join the online communities, and stay updated on any changes or announcements.

5 Follow up

The last tip for attending conferences is to follow up after the event and make the most of the connections and insights you gained. You need to review your notes, reflect on your learnings, and apply them to your work or projects. You also need to reach out to the people you met, thank them for their time and input, and follow up on any opportunities or collaborations. You may also want to share your feedback, insights, or takeaways with your colleagues, peers, or online networks, and contribute to the ongoing conversation and innovation in your niche.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?