For 18 years, the Animal Health Corridor has hosted the global animal health industry in Kansas City at the Animal Health Summit. Every year an important component of our annual event is the Emerging Company presentations where innovators from around the globe get to showcase their next big idea that will advance the health of animals.
Some innovators have grown up in the industry and some are just beginning to build their networks. Whether you are an industry veteran or new to the industry, the Animal Health Summit is an ideal place to advance your technology, make new connections and/or strengthen existing relationships.
As we approach August, here are my top tips for maximizing the benefits of the Animal Health Summit.
1. REGISTER
Tickets are limited and going fast, but there is still time to register. So, if you want to connect with industry leaders and investors in an environment that fosters connection, REGISTER TODAY!
2. STAY AT A CONFERENCE HOTEL
A “chance” meeting in the lobby, gym, hotel coffee shop or after-hours entertainment can provide additional opportunities for conversation or follow up to a meeting. There are a number of hotels near the Midland Theatre in downtown Kansas City, but many attendees will be staying at the Kansas City Downtown Marriott. So, if you have not yet booked your hotel, I would recommend considering this hotel to take advantage of the late night mosh pit.
3. GO PREPARED
Do your research! Know the companies in the industry, the latest trends in the industry and what you need to accomplish during the Summit. Reach out in advance and connect with companies or individuals on LinkedIn. Have your initial questions prepared in advance. Plan!
4. MAXIMIZE 1:1 BUSINESS PARTNERING
The 1:1 Business Partnering Platform that allows you to see who is registered for the Summit and pre-schedule 20 minutes before arriving in Kansas City opens July 24th. Register prior to July 21st. to take early advantage of prescheduling meetings. Do your homework and research companies in the industry to know who to schedule meetings with.
5. USE SOCIAL MEDIA
Tweet or post about the Summit on social media platforms prior to attending and while you are there. Tag companies and individuals you meet at the Summit and make positive comments about their session, topic, panels, your individual conversation, or the overall conference. Always use the conference #hashtag! The #hashtag for the 2023 Animal Health Summit is #AHSummit23!
6. BE APPROACHABLE
Don’t spend all of your time outside of the Summit program sessions using your phone or laptop. Move around, look up, engage, introduce yourself.
7. AVOID THE HELICOPTER APPROACH
Don’t hover! If you see someone that you would like to meet, complete your approach, and simply introduce yourself. No hovering!
8. BE READY WITH CONVERSATION STARTERS
If the conversation gets “stuck” always have a few conversation starters.
· “Where are you from?”
· “How long have you been with (fill in the blank) company?”
· “What speakers are you looking forward to?”
Remember, people always like to talk about their interests, so just ask!
9. BE OPEN TO MEETING NEW PEOPLE
Don’t attend just to pitch yourself or your company. Listen to others and allow new relationships and opportunities to open.
10. AFTER THE CONFERENCE FOLLOW UP
Send an email or LinkedIn invite to individuals you met at the Summit. Follow up with information or details that you promised during meetings. Connect individuals you met with others in your network where there is a shared valued connection.