How to Make the Most of Networking at a Tourism Conference
Tourism conferences like SOTC are more than just panels and presentations they are a great oppritunity to build relationships within the industry to help grow and shape your career or business. But if the thought of “networking” makes you picture awkward name tags and forced small talk, you're not alone. The good news? Networking at a tourism conference doesn’t have to feel transactional. In fact, it’s most valuable when it’s authentic.
Here’s how to get the most out of your time, connections, and coffee chats at your next event:
1. Go in With a Purpose - Keep an open mind
Think about what you’re hoping to get out of the event:
Looking for collaborators?
Hoping to meet tourism leaders in a specific sector?
Want to get inspired by people doing bold things?
Have a goal, but leave space for new goals, oppritunities, and to step out of your comfort zone. Some of your best connections may come from unexpected conversations.
2. Start Small and Be Curious
Don’t overthink it. Introduce yourself to the person sitting beside you in a session or waiting in the coffee line. Ask:
“What brought you to the conference?”
“What’s been your favourite session so far?”
“What’s something exciting you’re working on?”
These simple, genuine questions go a long way.
3. Attend the Extras - They Matter
Pre-conference tours, networking receptions, and interactive workshops often lead to the most intriguing and meaningful conversations. Shared experiences create easy ways to bond and build trust.
4. Be Ready to Share - But Not Sell
Have a quick elevator pitch ready about yourself such as who you are, what you do, and one interesting thing you're working on or curious about. But don’t treat every conversation like a pitch, make them unique for each person. Focus on building relationships, not handing out business cards.
5. Follow Up (Sooner Than Later)
After the conference, send a short message to the people you connected with:
“Great to meet you at SOTC; I really enjoyed our conversation about community-led tourism. Let’s stay in touch.”
Even better? Mention something specific you talked about. It helps make the connection stick.
Networking at a tourism conference isn’t about working the room. It’s about showing up, being curious, and finding common ground. Whether you leave with one strong contact or ten new ideas, it’s the quality of your connections that matters most.