What are the most effective questions to build a relationship with a conference speaker?

You've attended a conference and listened to an inspiring speaker who shared valuable insights on your field of interest. You want to connect with them and learn more from their expertise, but you don't know how to approach them without sounding awkward or intrusive. How can you ask effective questions that will build a rapport and a relationship with a conference speaker?

1 Why ask questions

Asking questions is not only a way to show your curiosity and appreciation for the speaker's work, but also a way to demonstrate your own knowledge and perspective on the topic. Questions can spark meaningful conversations, open new opportunities, and establish trust and credibility. By asking questions, you can also gain feedback, advice, and referrals from the speaker, who might become a mentor, a collaborator, or a friend.

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Michel PEZZIN

✨Bâtisseur de stratégies humaines✨| Entrepreneur RH | Formateur | Conférencier | RP | Ambassadeur Cercle de Wallonie ✨
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si vous assistez à une conférence c'est que le sujet vous intéresse. le fait de poser des questions lors d'une conférence fera d'une part, que vous vous faites remarquer. Deuxièmement, cela montre votre intérêt et votre implication . Troisièmement, cela contribue aussi à faire passer des messages aux conférenciers et/ou de susciter le débat

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2 What to ask

Asking a conference speaker the right questions is key to getting valuable insights. Aim for questions that are relevant, specific, and open-ended. Relevant questions should relate to the speaker's presentation, background, or current projects. Specific questions should focus on details, examples, or evidence. Open-ended questions invite the speaker to elaborate, explain, or share their opinion. For instance, you could ask how they developed their research question or hypothesis for their study; what were the main challenges or surprises they encountered in their project; how they apply their findings or recommendations to their practice or industry; what are some of the most common misconceptions or myths about their topic; what are some of the emerging trends or innovations in their field; how they balance their academic and professional roles and responsibilities; what are some of the best resources or tools that they use or recommend for their work; what are some of the skills or competencies that they consider essential for their field; how they approach collaboration or networking with other experts or stakeholders in their field; and what are some of the goals or aspirations that they have for their future work.

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Ruth Stanley, MPA

Words sing, data dances and people grow - seeing possibilities in the everyday
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In my experience, I use the 5 Ws to build a relationship with the conference speaker. 1. What do you like to talk about and do you see it fitting with our conference theme? 2. Who do you speak to and what have you learned about their needs? 3. Where. Are you ok with in-person events or will an online event work better for you? 4. When. Are you available on this date? 5. How do you like to structure your presentations, and do you need any technical help from us to enable participation?

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3 How to ask

Asking questions effectively can positively influence the quality and depth of your interaction with the speaker. To do this, it's important to be respectful and polite. Introduce yourself briefly, and avoid interrupting or arguing with the speaker or other questioners. Your questions should also be concise and clear, without rambling or digressing. Show genuine interest and enthusiasm for the speaker's work and perspective, listening attentively to their response and following up with comments or further questions if appropriate. Finally, express your gratitude for the speaker's answer and acknowledge their contribution by thanking them for their time and attention.

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4 When to ask

The timing of your questions can also affect the likelihood and quality of your response. Depending on the format and schedule of the conference, there are different opportunities to ask questions. During the presentation, you can raise your hand or use the chat function if the question is relevant and urgent. However, be mindful of the speaker's time and flow, and avoid interrupting or distracting them unnecessarily. After the presentation, you can ask questions that are related to the main points or conclusions of the talk, but be aware of the time limit and other questioners. During the break or networking session, this is a good opportunity to ask more personal or specific questions, but be respectful of the speaker's availability and privacy. If they seem busy or uninterested, thank them and move on.

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5 How to follow up

Asking questions is the start of a relationship with the speaker, not the end. To maintain and strengthen your connection, follow up with them and keep in touch. You can ask for their contact information or business card, send a thank-you note or email, share your feedback or resources, and request a meeting or a call. Asking effective questions can build a relationship that is professional, personal, and meaningful. You can learn from their expertise, gain from their network, and benefit from their guidance. Furthermore, you can contribute to their work, support their goals, and enrich their experience. Asking questions is not only a way to network, but also a way to grow.

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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?

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What are the most effective questions to build a relationship with a conference speaker?

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1 Why ask questions

2 What to ask

3 How to ask

4 When to ask

5 How to follow up

6 Here’s what else to consider

Conferences

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What are the most effective questions to build a relationship with a conference speaker?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Why ask questions

2 What to ask

3 How to ask

4 When to ask

5 How to follow up

6 Here’s what else to consider

Conferences

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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