For MICE professionals, relationships are everything.
Whether you’re sourcing a venue for a global conference, arranging incentive travel, or coordinating suppliers for an exhibition, your success depends on the strength of your network.
But here’s the truth: many people attend industry events and leave without maximizing their opportunities. It doesn’t have to be that way.
Five Actionable Strategies to Make the Most of Every Networking Platform
1. Define Your Objectives
Don’t just “show up.” Before attending an event, outline what you want to achieve:
- For planners: new venues, technology partners, or travel services.
- For suppliers: qualified corporate buyers or event planners in key markets.
Clear goals make networking targeted and efficient.
2. Do Your Homework
Most curated events — including CANConnect Plus — share attendee lists in advance. Use this to research who will be there, and prioritize high-value conversations.
This prep work ensures you don’t waste time on chance encounters alone.
3. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
In the fast-paced MICE environment, you rarely get more than a few minutes to make an impression. Craft a clear, compelling pitch that highlights your unique value — and back it up with a one-pager, digital portfolio, or case study.
4. Engage Beyond Formal Meetings
Some of the best MICE connections are made in hallways, lounges, or coffee breaks. Be approachable, ask open-ended questions, and look for ways to add value to conversations.
If you’re attending CANConnect Plus, the informal spaces are just as important as the curated ones.
5. Follow Up With Purpose
Networking doesn’t end when the event does. Within a week:
- Send a thank-you note.
- Connect on LinkedIn with context.
- Share a resource that relates to your discussion.
This shows professionalism and helps turn new contacts into long-term partners.
The Bigger Picture
For the MICE industry, networking is about more than personal gain. It’s about strengthening the entire ecosystem — building resilient partnerships that elevate Canada’s role in global meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.
Put These Strategies Into Action
If you’re ready to maximize your networking and be part of a growing Canadian MICE community, CANConnect Plus offers the perfect platform.
Secure your spot for November in Calgary: canconnectplus.ca