Conference Communication – How to Become Visible and Enjoy Networking
For anyone working in academia, conferences are key events: They provide insight into current research, but more importantly, they offer valuable opportunities to present your work, make meaningful connections, and establish long-term collaborations. At the same time, these opportunities can feel overwhelming – especially if you have little experience in academic networking or tend to be more reserved in larger groups. Many researchers find it challenging to initiate conversations with strangers, participate actively in discussions, or stay in touch after a conference. Talking about your own research – or responding to someone else’s – can also be a source of stress, particularly in unfamiliar or formal settings. The good news: You can easily improve your contact and conversation skills. This workshop is designed to help you feel more at ease in conference settings and to make the most of the social and professional aspects of academic events – regardless of whether you see yourself as outgoing or more reserved.
 
  Contents of the Workshop
In this workshop you will
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develop your individual networking strategies, 
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learn how to start, develop and end conversations, 
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overcome hurdles when approaching decision-makers, 
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apply and use the rules of scientific discussion (e.g. during Q&A sessions), and 
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find ways to stay in touch with interesting people. 
After the workshop, you will be able to plan professional encounters in advance and feel more comfortable in the social environment of your academic community. You will appear more competent and confident in academic discussions. Above all, you will be able to set your own goals – and develop strategies to achieve them. Most importantly, conferences will no longer be a source of stress for you, but rather an opportunity for personal and professional growth.
This workshop is intended for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers.
Please register using our registration form available at www.uni-siegen.de/hyt/registration/
At a glance
Participants in the HYT certificate programme can receive 8 AE credit for the workshop for the Communication Module.