Original Article by Tara M. Clapper, Navy Forum for SBIR/STTR Transition (Navy FST)
Still stuck in online conferences? Use these 5 tips from author Tara M. Clapper to ensure you are maximizing your virtual experience and created the best impression.
“1. Get Familiar with Software
If you’re new to online events or the software that the host organization will use, it’s best to gain familiarity with the hosting tool first. Particularly, knowing the features in a program such as Zoom is useful because you’ll want to understand how to turn your camera on and off, chat with others in the text chat area, mute yourself, and possibly blur or change your background. As a note about Zoom, most government organizations using that platform will use “Zoomgov,” a more secure version of Zoom just for government use. Less interactive conferences might use webinar platforms such as GoToWebinar and WebEx. Online conferences hinging on interaction might use virtual attendance platforms geared more toward interaction, such as Cadmium.
2. Access Accompanying Documents
Presenters and organizers often make documents such as outlines or PowerPoint presentations available during or after the conference. If you miss a session, you can usually rewatch the video, too. If networking is crucial to your event attendance experience, make sure to thank the presenter and connect with them on LinkedIn.
3. Enhance Your Online Event Experience with Note Taking
As with an in-person event, it may benefit you to take notes about the subject matter presented, or to write down names and potential opportunities for follow-up. To make the most of this online, consider using a second device to take notes, or, if your setup allows it, a second monitor (one to watch content, another for notetaking). If you like taking hand notes, check out a digital notebook, such as a Rocketbook. These smart notebooks let you take notes by hand, but you can digitize and share them using an app later.
4. Network at Online Events
Naturally, online events in the defense industry are fantastic networking opportunities. To make the most of them:
· Fill out your profile on more complex event platforms, including your photo, email, title, and a link to your organization and LinkedIn profile
· If you’re a member of the armed forces or retired, include your rank to increase trust
· Make sure your profile clarifies not just your job title, but your function. For example: First name Last name | Job Title | Company | Statement about your goals and who you are looking to connect with
During online events, have a blank document ready to go. You can copy and paste others’ info. Keep LinkedIn open on your device so you can instantly find and request connections for immediate follow-up. If there is a video component to the online event, ensure you look professional, as well as your background or working environment. Avoid having proprietary information displayed in the background and make sure anyone else in your space is not discussing private, personal, or secure information.
5. Divide and Conquer
As at an in-person event, it makes sense to divide and conquer online events when you have colleagues attending. Which person is specific to which session? Check schedules ahead of time and plan accordingly. When each person attends an informative session, breakout, or networking session, have them write a brief summary. Gather all employee summaries in a document and distribute to stakeholders to discuss following the event.
Are you interested in attending upcoming online events? Navigate to NavyFST.com to learn more about events showcasing innovative Phase II technologies.
To discover transition-ready innovative Phase II technologies, visit the Virtual Transition Marketplace at https://vtm.navyfst.com/”
Click the link below to read the full article.
LinkedIn Tara M. Clapper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madrigalblue/