So You Collected A Stack Of Business Cards At Our Education Conference — Now What?

Attending the Education 2.0 Conference is an exciting experience — filled with insightful sessions, inspiring speakers, and, of course, countless opportunities to meet fellow education professionals. By the end of our education leadership summit, you might find yourself with a hefty stack of business cards, each representing a new connection, a potential collaborator, or even a future mentor. But here’s the million-dollar question: now that you’ve got all these cards, what’s next?

Don’t worry! Collecting business cards is just the start. Turning those contacts into meaningful, lasting professional relationships — and real opportunities — takes a little planning and effort.

At Education 2.0, we believe the magic happens after the conference. Here’s a simple, effective guide to help you follow up, maintain your new connections, and turn your networking success into future growth.

Step 1: Organize Your Business Cards (Before the Pile Grows)

You’ve got a stack of cards, maybe some notes scribbled on the back. The first step is to organize these contacts before they become just another pile on your desk. Don’t wait too long! The sooner you review and sort your cards, the fresher the memories of those conversations will be.

Source: Faster Capital

Try grouping cards by categories — for example, potential collaborators, speakers, service providers, or people you want to learn more from. If you’re a tech-savvy networker, consider scanning the cards into a contact management app like CamCard or using LinkedIn’s “Find Nearby” feature to connect digitally. Many apps even allow you to add notes about the person or remind you when to follow up.

Taking this step quickly not only saves time later but also sets the tone for a professional and proactive follow-up. Plus, it’s a great way to reflect on the people you met at the education innovation summit and think about what you want to achieve with each connection.

Step 2: Craft A Thoughtful Follow-Up Message (Stand Out In Their Inbox)

Once you’ve organized your contacts, it’s time to reach out. The key here is personalization. Everyone receives generic “Nice to meet you” emails after conferences, but a personalized message that references your conversation or a shared interest will make you memorable.

Within 48 hours to a week after the education leadership summit, send a brief email or LinkedIn message reminding your new contact where you met. Mention something specific you discussed or appreciated, and suggest a next step, whether it’s sharing a resource, exploring collaboration, or just staying in touch.

Here’s a quick example:

“Hi [Name],
It was great meeting you at the Education 2.0 Conference last week. I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic]. I’d love to continue the discussion and explore ways we might work together. Let me know if you’re open to a quick call or coffee chat sometime soon!
Best,
[Your Name]”

If you’re following up with multiple contacts, consider customizing each message just enough to show you remember the conversation, but keep it concise. Overly long messages might get skipped, especially when everyone’s inboxes are full.

Step 3: Use Social Media To Maintain Connections (Be Present And Engage)

Social media, especially LinkedIn, is a powerful tool for keeping your professional network active. After sending your initial follow-up, connect with your new contacts on LinkedIn. Always customize your connection requests with a reminder of your meeting — nobody likes a blank “connect” request from a stranger.

Once connected, don’t just collect contacts — engage with their posts, share interesting articles, and participate in conversations relevant to education innovation and leadership. This kind of meaningful engagement helps build rapport and keeps you on their radar.

If you haven’t already, check out the Education 2.0 Conference’s LinkedIn or community pages. These spaces are designed for ongoing discussions, sharing ideas, and finding collaboration opportunities. It’s a great way to stay connected with the broader education network long after the education leadership summit ends.

Step 4: Schedule A Follow-Up Meeting Or Call (Take It To The Next Level)

There’s only so much you can do with emails and social media messages. To build stronger relationships, try moving the connection to a one-on-one conversation. Propose a virtual coffee chat or a quick call to discuss mutual interests or potential projects.

When you schedule a meeting, keep it focused and respectful of their time. Prepare a few key topics or questions to make your chat valuable for both sides. For example, you might want to ask about their current projects, challenges they’re facing in education, or ways you can collaborate.

Remember, these meetings are not just about what you can gain — they’re about finding ways to support each other’s goals. That mindset helps create genuine, lasting connections.

Step 5: Turn Connections Into Opportunities (Make It Mutually Beneficial)!

Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts — it’s about creating a network that supports growth for everyone involved. Look for ways you can offer value to your new connections. This could be sharing useful resources, inviting them to other relevant events, or simply offering your expertise.

At Education 2.0, we see networking as a two-way street. When you help others succeed, you build trust and open doors for your own growth. Maybe a contact becomes a co-presenter at next year’s conference, or you find a mentor who guides your career — the possibilities are endless when you nurture these relationships.

Keep in touch regularly — not just when you need something. A quick check-in message or sharing an interesting article can keep the connection alive and meaningful over time. The key is consistency and genuine interest.

Conclusion: Your Networking Journey Starts Now

Collecting business cards at the Education 2.0 Conference is a fantastic first step — but the real power lies in what you do next. By organizing your contacts, sending thoughtful follow-ups, engaging on social media, and moving conversations beyond the screen, you’ll build a network that can open doors to exciting opportunities.

We encourage you to take action while the energy from the education innovation summit is still fresh. And remember, the Education 2.0 Conference is more than just an event — it’s a community dedicated to your ongoing growth, learning, and success. Stay connected with us online and at future events, and watch how those business cards turn into meaningful collaborations and career milestones.

Happy networking!

FAQ

1. When and how can I collect business cards at the Education 2.0 Conference?

   Ans. The Education 2.0 Conference offers multiple dedicated networking sessions spread throughout the event day, giving you plenty of chances to meet peers and exchange business cards. There’s also a special Business Card Exchange session designed specifically to facilitate easy, meaningful connections. Be sure to bring your cards and take advantage of these opportunities to build your network!

2. How soon should I follow up after collecting business cards at a conference?

   Ans. It’s best to follow up within 48 hours to a week after the conference, while the conversation is still fresh in both your minds. Prompt follow-up shows professionalism and helps keep the momentum going.

3. What’s the best way to organize the business cards I collect?

   Ans. Sort your cards by categories such as potential collaborators, mentors, or service providers. Use digital tools like contact management apps or spreadsheets to scan and store contacts along with notes. This helps you manage and prioritize your follow-ups effectively.

4. Is it important to connect on social media after a conference?

   Ans. Yes! Platforms like LinkedIn are great for maintaining and growing your professional network. Always personalize connection requests and engage with your contacts regularly by commenting on their posts or sharing relevant content.

5. Why should I attend the Education 2.0 Conference if I want to grow my professional network?

   Ans. The Education 2.0 Conference brings together top education leaders, innovators, and practitioners from across the globe. It’s a unique platform to meet influential peers, learn from experts, and build connections that can open doors to collaborations, career growth, and new opportunities in the education sector.