Want to maximise your engagement with Key opinion leaders? Follow these four rules.

Congress floor

After months of planning, anticipation and excitement, you've finally reached that meeting or conference where all the top key opinion leaders and thought leaders will be at the agenda and faculty align with business needs and strategy, but how do you get the most out of it and get the best return on investment. Here are four tips to help you get the best out of it.

1. Poster Session

Poster sessions where your thought leaders and rising stars present their latest research and data are, without a doubt, the best and most exciting way to engage and meet new people. Often, to deliver a poster presentation is why a healthcare professional has been invited to the congress in the first place. Other thought leaders are keen to listen and learn about the latest actions,

The most effective way to drive up your interactions and engagement with your key opinion leaders is to attend poster sessions, in particular, moderated poster sessions where the poster is presented and discussed at length; this is an opportunity to discuss their work, inform your strategy and most importantly build rapport. For example, sharing insights about your work and asking questions about the methodology and validity of the results can engage the thought leader.

2. Scientific Sessions

Engaging and attending scientific sessions at congresses is an excellent and easy thing to do when addressing speakers, chairs and even those who ask questions. Reaching out and sharing how much you enjoyed the scientific presentation and how you enjoyed the explanations is impactful. Emphase how you would like to discuss the research further and understand the process behind the work better in a future meeting.

3. Congress Booth

Suppose you're privileged enough to have a medical stand or congress booth. In that case, this provides another excellent opportunity for key opinion leaders and healthcare professionals to come over and engage with you. Make sure you're welcoming, it is obvious to say, but always smile, greet and make people comfortable to come over and engage. It is crucial to be prepared to have all the relevant information, knowledge and answers to any questions. This will demonstrate to your healthcare professional that you can provide value and build goodwill.

4. Corridor & Coffee Breaks

When greeting a key opinion leader during a coffee break or in a corridor, it's essential to be polite and respectful. Start with a friendly greeting like "Good morning" or "Hello", and introduce yourself if you haven't met before. Then, you can ask them about their work or the presentation they just gave. Be genuine and show interest in their research or expertise. If you have something to contribute to the conversation, share it respectfully. If you don't have much to add, ask thoughtful questions to engage the key opinion leader in conversation. Remember to be respectful of their time and attention span.

Finally, exchange contact information if appropriate and thank them for their time and insights. This will leave a positive impression and could lead to future collaborations or connection.

Thanks for reading; until next time.