iKnow: How-to AMIA

Networking Success Toolkit for Health Informatics Trainees

The most valuable thing at AMIA are the people around you!!

It can be intimidating to meet new people and network at a conference, but a little planning can help.

This toolkit includes:

• How to introduce yourself listener-first

• Crafting a concise, impactful elevator pitch

• When and where to connect for meaningful conversations

• Tried-and-true conversation flow tactics

• Strategies for graceful exits

• The essential question mentors love to hear

• Practical follow-up advice after the conference

• A checklist to prep you for the ACMI Speed Networking and E2R mentoring events every networking opportunity

These resources have been crafted with direct input from leading clinical informatics experts and AMIA mentors, reflecting the wisdom and experience of those shaping the field.

**visuals courtesy of Gemini

1. (Re)Set your expectations.. 

Networking is a long term game ..

where you can't expect anything to come from it. Avoid making a conversation awkward by pressing for commitments; Most people can't make big offers on the spot. Use networking time to learn about opportunities and hear how others approach challenges and choices (like jobs, funding, career moves).

• Don't push for commitment. Share a thought, ask one small thing, then pause and wait for a response. 

• Keep it short. You want to have warm conversations, not present a monologue of your life's ambitions. Give the other person a chance to speak and share their opinions.

• Let them leave. Conversations get interrupted, (perhaps they need to pee!). Don't be offended if a conversation gets cut short. You will see them again. 

2. Plan for serendipity..

Make a short list of the people or types of people you'd like to connect with and why. This will guide your networking efforts and ensure meaningful conversations.

• Sit next to someone new at a session and introduce yourself.

• Ask a generic question. It can be challenging to ask questions to a new acquaintance or during a presentation - it's easier if you're prepared. Keep the questions simple and friendly: "What talks have you enjoyed?" or "What's the next challenge for your project?"

  

Email people you'd like to meet. Schedule to meet up at a coffee break or walk with them between sessions. Earlier the better, but very often people are checking their email during the conference.

3. Prepare an elevator pitch for yourself..

You'll be introducing yourself to lots of people, it's worth thinking about how to do it. An elevator pitch is a short, 30 seconds or less, description of yourself and what you're hoping to learn.

Avoid jargon. Keep your language simple.

• Describe the value of your work or interest in shared interests or problems is important, don't explain your credentials or career history. Tailor how you present yourself based on the environment your meeting this person in -- maybe it's a specialized working group.

• Rehearse, but don't over rehearse. Feel confident you can hit key points about yourself in a sentence or two. Don't commit these sentences to memory as it will come off as mechanical and impersonal. Practice rehearsing while moving to keep it fluid.

4. Elevator Pitch Template

**Two breath cycles: if it doesn’t fit, it isn’t a hallway pitch.

An elevator pitch is strongest if you know who you're talking to.

If you're reaching out to potential mentors, collaborators, or employers, do your homework:

• Name overlap of interests to provide context to your audience.

• Be specific about their work. It shows you did your homework, even if a detail is wrong.

• Listen more than you talk. Ask a single question at a time.

Ask for advice and opinions. Don't ask for commitments."Given my position, what 1–2 resources or next steps would you recommend?

5. Ending gracefully..

In professional environments, the ability to conclude a conversation gracefully is vital for maintaining positive relationships and ensuring effective communication. Consider using the following closing statements:

• “Great, I'll swing by [same time] tomorrow.” - This phrase sets a clear expectation for future interactions while reaffirming your commitment to the conversation.

• “I’d love to follow up with you about this. What is the best way to reach you?” - This demonstrates your interest in continuing the dialogue and facilitates a seamless transition to future discussions.

• “Thank you for your insights. I look forward to our next meeting.” - Recognizing the other person's contributions fosters goodwill and leaves a positive impression.

• “Let’s touch base next week to see how things are progressing.” - This establishes a timeline for follow-up, ensuring the conversation remains active.

• “I appreciate your time today. Have a great rest of your day!” - A cordial closing statement that expresses gratitude and concludes the conversation on a positive note.

Employing these statements can help you conclude conversations professionally, ensuring clarity and promoting ongoing communication.

6. Have a follow-up plan..

Building connections at AMIA doesn’t end when the conference does. A thoughtful follow-up plan helps turn brief introductions into lasting professional relationships.

• Within 48 Hours: Add new contacts on LinkedIn or send a short thank-you email. Something like “It was great meeting you at AMIA! I really enjoyed our chat about [specific topic]. Let’s stay connected.” (see earlier point about taking notes)

• Within 2 Weeks: Send a personalized follow-up message or share a resource you mentioned in conversation, such as an article, project link, or presentation. This keeps the dialogue active and meaningful.

• Within 3 Months: Revisit your notes and reach out again to maintain the connection. Ask about potential collaboration ideas, upcoming calls for papers, or future projects that align with your interests.