ECC Congress 2024 is set to be a spectacular two days, offering hours of learning opportunities within the stunning surroundings of the Royal Armouries. There’s no better place to meet other veterinary professionals looking to soak up the atmosphere – and the CPD.
However, if the idea of “networking” fills you with dread, you’re not alone. Whether you thrive in loud, busy environments or prefer smaller social gatherings, we’ve got some tips to help you make the most of time with your peers during the event.
1. Remember, everyone’s there for the same reason
Whether you gain energy from socialising or need some quiet time to recharge, everyone at Congress has something in common – a passion for caring for animals and a desire to continue learning. Coming to Congress isn’t like walking into a room full of strangers, everyone is attending a mixture of the same sessions, you likely have some similar interests, and you probably know a lot of the same people already. If you need to give yourself a pep talk before facing the crowd, that’s a good place to start.
2. Start a conversation on our social media posts
Follow our Facebook, Instagram and TikTok (if you don’t already), for regularly updates on speakers and milestones in the lead up to the event. Leave a comment on our posts to encourage other delegates to reply, like which sessions you’re most looking forward to and why, or ideas for 90s-themed Gala dinner costumes, to help get the conversation flowing.
3. Ask someone to share their thoughts
With six different streams running concurrently, it’s not easy to choose which sessions to attend live and which recordings to catch up on later. Why not turn the dilemma into a conversation starter and ask someone for a recommendation. You could go one step further and ask them more about their role and which session they’re attending, and perhaps even suggest catching up later to share your thoughts.
4. Head for the exhibition hall
The exhibition hall is the heart of Congress, with different exhibitors waiting to strike up a conversation. Say hello to another delegate waiting at a stand or make a joke about the freebies you’ve collected to break the ice. Stop by the smoothie cycle bar to chat while making your own drink or release your inner child’s social side at the pick ‘n’ mix stand. Or simply grab a coffee and find people or groups to chat to. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in the exhibition hall.
5. Download the app
If you’ve booked your ticket you can download our dedicated Congress app where you’ll find everything you need to plan your schedule, including a map to help you find your way around the Royal Armouries, course notes, and notifications of what’s coming up. Planning your Congress experience in advance leaves you more time to enjoy the event. Download the app here.
6. Compliment someone
Notice someone’s interesting hat or nice notebook? Tell them! It’s best to avoid focusing on appearance, but a quick appropriate compliment from a stranger is a great way to start a conversation. A simple “I love your rucksack, do you mind me asking where you got it?” could kick off the most meaningful conversation you have at Congress.
7. Bring something eye catching
The other side of the compliment coin. Bringing along something that stands out among the crowd could be the perfect ice breaker. You’d be surprised how many people will stop to acknowledge a colourful shirt or unique bag.
8. Unwind at the gala dinner
Congress is famous for its sparkling gala dinner, with delicious food, amazing entertainment and incredible costumes. This year we’re celebrating a nod to the nineties and with a decade of costume potential to choose from, there’s sure to be an array of dress up efforts to admire. Enjoy the gala dinner for what it is, a chance to relax after a busy day of learning, have a nice meal, and most importantly, enjoy some good company.
