Our Networking Guide To Navigate This Summer's Biggest Conferences

National Association of Black Journalist Convention: August 1 - 5, 2018

NABJ convention was the talk of the town last year as attendees turned their backs on Omarosa Manigault while she and acclaimed journalist Ed Gordon exchanged in a spar of words. Fashion and beauty e-commerce copywriter, LaKrishia Armour was there to witness it all at the annual gathering of journalists, ranging from college students to seasoned writers, award-winning media personalities and celebrities. "The conference is almost like a family reunion because people attend every year, and they've worked in several cities and at several media outlets, and like any family reunion, there's bound to be something that's the talk of the weekend!"

Why You'll Love Attending

Aside from being hosted in different cities each year that you'll get to explore, you'll be around people who have similar interests. "A person who loves to 'nerd out' on media will get the most from attending NABJ. Bonus points if they're naturally curious, like to learn, and enjoy conversation, whether exchanging or listening with interest for the introverts. We're all professional communicators, so there is a lot of talking during the conference," she shared.

You Network Differently Depending on Career Level

LaKrishia attended the NABJ Convention when she was a different levels of her career. "I attended twice during grad school, then recently went last year. As a student, I was on my best behavior, took notes, and made a friend who still keeps in touch. Running into him at last year's New Orleans conference was great full-circle moment. What I gained as a mid-senior level professional was different based on my perspective. I was still there to learn and network, but I was able to relax, have more fun and meet people casually because I have more life and work experience. Last year, I met one of the founders of NABJ, which was like the Holy Grail," she shared.

"What I gained as a mid-senior level professional was different based on my perspective."

If you are a student looking for an internship or a recent graduate, opportunities to land a gig on the spot is possible. "I learned that if you live in a major city, landing a job at the conference career fair was possible. Many companies interviewed on the spot. Last year, I circled the career fair to 'take inventory', but I had more opportunities from connections I made hanging out in the lobby," she explained.

Best Places to Network

With all the information that will be shared throughout the day, give yourself a break from the overload to network. "Hang out in the hotel lobby, especially if there's a bar or restaurant to play hookey to relax your mind from the overwhelm of the sessions, and to meet your faves when there's not a swarm of people around them. Aside from being a barfly, take a break from the sessions, even if it's just to see one of the exhibits or wander around the conference area. Panelists from previous sessions are doing the same thing."

Don't Be Shy

Not all writers are introverts, but many of them are, and that can be cumbersome at a networking event. "If you're introverted or need a boost of confidence, take a friend who can make instant friends. They'll be your wingman and can help you get the courage to talk to an interesting peer or to someone you admire. Just make sure they don't embarrass you at lunch time like mine did!"

Networking with your peers or striking a conversation with a seasoned journalist may be a great first step. "Networking with your peers—meaning people at your experience level—is the best way to go. Even if they're a print journalist and you're a producer, you'll both have more in common than you think. Also look out for seasoned professionals. They may look like they're not with modern times, but you'll learn a ton from just one conversation with a person over 60," shared LaKrisha.

"Networking with your peers is the best way to go."

You are now set with the tools and tips you need to make the most out of this summer's must-attend conferences and festivals.

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