Hi everyone, and welcome back to another S&A Bulletin. Conference season is almost upon us, and whether you’re attending your first industry event or returning after a long absence, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are four tips picked up over many years in international education that we think are worth taking with you.

Stop trying to meet everyone

It sounds counterintuitive, but trying to speak to every single person at an event is one of the least effective ways to use your time there. Less is more. Do your research in advance, identify who you actually want to sit down with and prioritise those conversations. A handful of meaningful exchanges will always outperform a room full of quick hellos.

Your conference starts before you arrive

Those 20 or 30 minute meetings are too valuable to waste on introductions you could have done beforehand. That’s why we advise you to know who you’re meeting in advance, understand what they do and what they’re looking for and walk in ready to have a real conversation.

Don’t open with ‘tell me about your school’

Saying this signals disinterest before the conversation has even begun. Whether you’re a school or an agent, leading with a genuine question about the person in front of you – for example, how they got into the industry, where they’re based or who their students are – makes a far stronger first impression than launching straight into your sales pitch.

Make human connection your priority

Merchandise, brochures and flashy tech might catch people’s attention, but what leaves a lasting impression is genuine presence. Be in the moment. Listen. Turn the conversation towards the other person. That is what people remember long after the event is over.

That's all for today, but tune in next week for Part 2! And for more on building strong relationships in the industry, check out our two-part series on what schools and agents want from each other.

Written by Stephanie Clark