For those I’d like to meet at the conference, I look for ways we can cross paths. Will we be at the same reception? Do we have any shared friends? Is this person presenting a session? Will they be at a section or committee meeting at a certain time? Scientific Assembly is a big conference, so some advanced planning is often required to end up in the same room with potential connections.  

Game Time 

You’ve heard this before, but I’ll say it anyway: Dress for success. These are professional meetings, so pick clothes that make you feel competent and confident.  

Practice your elevator speech because first impressions are important. When our paths cross in the convention center hallway or escalator, how will you introduce yourself and start a conversation? We’re all emergency physicians, so try to include something specific or memorable to set yourself apart. This is where the advance planning comes in – if you’re already informed about the person you’re meeting, you’ll know enough about them to connect over shared interests, mutual colleagues, etc.  

Sometimes conversations feel awkward and slow, but don’t get discouraged. I think the best way to get a good discussion going is by asking questions. Most people like to talk about themselves! Keep asking questions and the conversation should begin to flow as you discover things you have in common. 

WHERE TO NETWORK AT ACEP22

“Always, always go to the opening party. Don’t look at your phone at the reception because people won’t come up to you if they think you’re busy. When you attend lectures, sit next to someone who is also alone and start a conversation. Go to section meetings a little early and then stay until the end. There’s a lot to talk about.”

—Sandra Schneider, MD, FACEP

“Contact your residency program or affiliated group to see if they’re organizing networking dinners. These are common in the evenings and are a great way to touch base with some friendly, familiar faces while away from home. Sign up for at least one  skills workshop. They are always high-quality, and this is a great way to polish your skills while working hands-on with peers from across the country. These are typically run by people you want to know.”

—John Corker, MD, FACEP

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“If you come to our EMS Section or EMS Committee meeting, it’s the most natural thing in the world to introduce yourself and ask any of us about the EMS systems we get to serve as medical directors, clinical educators, consultants, etc. That often leads to questions about how you developed an interest in EMS. And then, we’re off to sharing “war stories” about the adventures we’ve had! The same applies to nearly every other interest area of EM—peds, rural, wellness, diversity/health equity/inclusion, etc.”