My company was on the cusp of a new era: Regenerative AI Integration. It was all anyone talked about. Since the start of the pandemic, I hadn’t attended a single conference. But then an international conference for technophiles offered a chance to see the trajectory of where regenerative AI could take our business.

I kicked off the day of the conference with optimism and a latte in hand. Armed with a smile and my QR code for easy business card swaps, I faced a bright, bustling room abuzz with what most introverts fear: networking. After a ten-minute spiel about how a company is “literally ending world hunger” with AI, I was exhausted. It was only 8 a.m. The problem? I had forgotten the rules of engagement and hadn’t prepared my introvert mind for a 10-hour conference.

Conferences and networking events have become a staple of modern professional life. Attending a business conference can be nerve-wracking with first impressions for anyone and sensory overload for introverts. It’s easy to feel out of your depth with imposter syndrome surrounded by high-achieving extroverts with their polished personas. But at a Toastmasters conference, no one is out of their depth, and no one stays a wallflower for long. Someone will talk to you without diminishing you to just your professional title or resume. In fact, it can be the perfect venue for learning to network and building confidence.

At Toastmasters conferences, you’ll find yourself in the company of contest winners, club presidents, and area directors, as well as novices starting their public speaking journey. But there’s one advantage that truly sets a Toastmasters event apart from other conferences: it’s where ‘Leaders are Made’. In this supportive network of passionate communicators, you’ll discover a friendly environment that empowers you to grow, stretch beyond your comfort zone, and unlock your full potential.

Despite the support of the community in attendance, it’s always best to be prepared to stay engaged with the conference and participants. Preparedness helps allay anxieties one may have in a large room with a sea of strangers.

Here are five rules of engagement to help you make the most out of your Toastmasters conference experience.

Set Clear Goals and Be Focused

Before the event, think about what you want to get out of the Toastmasters conference. What key topics on the agenda interest you? Are you there to network, find a mentor, or dive deeper into leadership? Whatever it may be, it is important to understand how your personal values can steer you towards your goals. Having clear goals will help you focus on the interactions, sessions and activities that matter most to you.

Branch Out and Be Open-Minded

Don’t just stick to the familiar—branch out and explore! Toastmasters conferences are packed with diverse workshops and speeches, from educational talks to captivating storytelling and laugh-out-loud humor. Step outside your comfort zone and attend sessions that challenge how you might evolve as a communicator. You might just uncover a new passion or gain unexpected insights.

Network and Be Seen

Conferences are an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow Toastmasters from various clubs—and even different countries. Before the event, reach out to your network to see who else will be attending. Take some time to research the keynote speakers and other attendees to identify common ground. A well-rehearsed yet natural elevator-pitch about who you are, what you do, and what you want to achieve can boost your confidence, foster meaningful interactions, and enhance your overall experience. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations during breaks or meals; you never know who you might meet and how they could support you on your journey. And remember, following up with your new contacts afterward is key to nurturing those connections.

Take Notes and Be Inspired

Take note of what resonates with you and stay present. Focus on key takeaways or actionable tips rather than transcribing or recording entire sessions. This way, you’ll retain the most valuable insights without feeling overwhelmed with too much information. This mindset not only enhances your understanding but also opens the door to deeper conversations with other attendees who share your interests.

Have Fun and Be Yourself

Enjoy the experience! You’ll be with people who share your interests and are genuinely interested in you! Take a deep breath, relax, and remind yourself that everyone was a first timer at some point. Stay open to new experiences, and above all, have fun!

By keeping these five tips in mind, you’ll walk away from your Toastmasters conference feeling inspired, energized, and ready to take your speaking skills to the next level.

Discover how you can Unlock Your Potential at District 86’s Annual Conference, happening from April 22-27, 2025 at the Four Points by Sheraton in St. Catharine’s, Ontario. Registration details will be posted soon!

Created by Simi Lachman, Milton Escarpment Toastmasters Club