graduate study, networking with students and faculty from
programs under consideration can be helpful. Questions
about various programs can be answered when conversing
with these individuals. It pays to be professional at all times.
For example, individuals may find themselves sitting next
to the dean of the graduate program under consideration.
It would be quite uncomfortable to have an admission in-
terview with this dean if the image portrayed is unfavorable.
Professional behaviors always make favorable impres-
sions and should be practiced when attending conferences.
Participants should dress professionally. Although attending a conference is a day
away from work, it should not be considered a day off. Wearing sweatpants or jeans
to be comfortable is not acceptable. It is customary for individuals to wear busi-
ness suits or skirts or trousers that are paired with conservative blouses, sweaters,
or jackets. Layering clothing is always wise because presentation rooms can vary
in temperature. Arriving on time, introducing yourself to others, and offering a
handshake make excellent first impressions. Inquiring where someone is from or
why they chose to attend this conference is a good way to begin a conversation. If
individuals find areas of common interest, having a business card to share facilitates
networking. Allowing cell phones to ring during presentations shows disrespect for
both presenters and members of the audience. Phones should be either turned off
or silenced. It is also rude to converse with other attendees during presentations.
It is best to take full advantage of conferences because they can be costly to
attend (Brown & Schmidt, 2009). Reviewing conference programs in their entirety
allows participants to select sessions that pertain to their interests. Abstracts con-
tain valuable information that helps identify presentations and posters of interest.
Highlighting or writing out a schedule of preferred sessions ensures that time is
maximized. It can be disappointing to overlook a scheduled session of interest.
When planning a schedule, keep in mind that it is acceptable to change rooms
between presentations during the same session time. If attending conferences
with colleagues, it can be tempting to attend all sessions together. However, to
maximize exposure to new ideas, it is wise to split up and share information later.
In addition to the sessions, conferences offer many other opportunities for
networking. Attending interdisciplinary conferences may offer an opportunity
to foster a collaborative approach to EBP (Newhouse & Spring, 2010). Some
of the most important exchanges of information occur during conversations
in hallways or at receptions. Viewing poster sessions, visiting vendor exhibits,
and attending meals and breaks provide opportunities to meet new people or
renew friendships. If there is a respected authority you would like to meet,
introduce yourself. Most experts are eager to discuss their work. Networking,
like dissemination, is vital to building the discipline of nursing.FYI
Not only are conferences excellent venues for
dissemination of new knowledge, but they
also provide opportunities for developing
connections with colleagues who have similar
interests, meeting experts in the field, and
exploring career opportunities. Professional
behaviors always make favorable impressions
and should be practiced when attending
conferences.508 CHAPTER 19 Sharing the Insights with Others