Alexia Beckford shares tips to thrive at tech conferences

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, networking is not merely a trendy term but a crucial skill that opens doors to numerous opportunities. For women in the tech field, mastering this skill is vital for both personal and professional advancement. Alexia Beckford, programme director of the Jamaica Technology and Digital Alliance (JTDA) is all for championing the collaborative spirit of the local tech community, more so through the initiative of the JTDA’s premier technology conference, BizTech, which is set to take place from November 14-15, 2023.

“Inspired by the vibrant innovation tapestry at Collision 2023 in Toronto, our JTDA team envisions a future where technology transcends boundaries and sectors. Much like Collision united brilliant minds from 118 countries and diverse fields such as fashion, media, technology, finance, and hospitality, our goal is to create an equally inclusive ecosystem. We believe technology is a force that can revolutionize every sector, not confined to a single industry. With BizTech 2023, we aim to inspire people from varied fields, showcasing the limitless possibilities tech offers. This hybrid conference will foster collaboration, sparking imagination and paving the way for a future where innovation knows no bounds,” said Beckford.

As a way to help equip individuals with the tools to thrive in the ever-changing industry, Beckford shares her top five tips for making the best out of tech conferences.

First, Beckford emphasised the importance of preparing elevator pitches. She shared that time is precious so you must be ready with a concise, engaging pitch that clearly outlines your skills and objectives. This clarity helps potential collaborators understand how they can work with you effectively.

BE AN ACTIVE LISTENER

Second, being an active listener is important. Beckford shared that networking isn’t just about talking; it’s about meaningful conversations. So, you should listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and engage with others’ experiences and insights.

Next, leverage your social media. In the digital age, social media is a potent networking tool. Beckford believes that engaging with event-specific hashtags and following official pages are beneficial. She adds that pre-event interactions can set the stage for fruitful face-to-face conversations.

The fourth tip is to participate in breakout workshops and specialised sessions to explore key topics and connect with experts. Actively participating boosts knowledge and builds valuable connections – ask questions and seek insights without hesitation.

Finally, she highlighted the importance of exchanging contact information confidently. Swap business cards or contact details, and after the event, follow up with a courteous email or LinkedIn message expressing your pleasure in meeting and exploring collaboration possibilities. Remember, networking is an ongoing process that extends beyond the event.