IBA Annual Conference: top tips, Business Development and Marketing Subcommittee guide, September 2023

Charlotte Ford
Charles Russell Speechlys, London
charlotte.ford@crsblaw.com

The IBA Annual Conference heads to Paris, 29 October – 3 November 2023 with a mix of expert panels, keynote speakers and networking to connect the legal profession worldwide.

With hundreds of conference sessions and networking events - and thousands of delegates - it’s a good idea to start your preparation early so we’ve put together our top tips to make the most of the event before, during and after.

New for Paris 2023: The High Tide Conference on 29 October is a one-day event for BD and marketing professionals attending the IBA annual conference with a great mix of panel sessions, tech talks and networking. Register here.

Before

• Register online here: https://www.ibanet.org/conference-details/CONF2244. :

• There are hundreds of working sessions covering a broad range of legal topics. Take some time to identify the panels you want to join before heading out to Miami. You can browse the programme online and add sessions to your calendar.

• Expect a busy social programme with hundreds of dinners, receptions and gatherings across Miami during the week. Some social events are ticketed so check the conference website to book your place in advance.

• The online delegate search is now available on the conference webpage. Use this to see who else is attending so you can organise some meetings in the margins of the event before you get to Paris.

• Download the conference app for access to the searchable directory of delegates and programme, you can also use this to message other delegates.

• Get ready to network! You will likely receive a lot of LinkedIn profile views and connection requests so make sure your profile is up to date with a photo, cover image, headline and bio.

• Check your profile on your firm website is up to date, including international experience and interests such as involvement in your firm’s international desks or membership of the IBA.

• Why not let contacts know you are attending or speaking at the event with a LinkedIn or X post – don’t forget the hashtag #IBAParis. You can also follow this hashtag on LinkedIn and X to find out who else is talking about the event.

• Pack business cards – more than you think! Focus on lightweight marketing materials or be ready to send these by email after the event to avoid handing out too many leaflets or goodies which may be discarded.

• Is your firm organising a social event? Be mindful of the IBA’s request to avoid scheduling events during conference session times and allow delegates time to return to the convention centre. There are also rules on use of the IBA logo and references to the IBA in event invitations.

During

• First time at the IBA Annual Conference? The IBA Global Networking Hub on Sunday 29 October from 3pm – 5pm is an excellent place to start your networking and get some great tips on getting the most from the conference.
• Be an active participant: listen, take notes, ask questions or comment on the discussion.
• Use the LinkedIn app to share or scan QR codes to easily connect with new contacts.
• Inspired by the debate and the conference?
• Share your thoughts on LinkedIn or X to be part of the conversation with the #IBAMiami hashtag and see what others are saying.
• Use the LinkedIn app to share or scan QR codes to easily connect with new contacts
• Take lots of pictures – original imagery is a great way to improve visibility on a LinkedIn post and if possible tag key speakers to increase interaction and further the conversation in the comment section.
• Don’t forget to visit the Exhibitor Hall to meet a variety of companies and others in the legal services sector, plus the IBA team are on hand to help you get the most from the event. Drop by when collecting your badge or during the networking breaks.
• Interested in getting more involved in the IBA? Join a committee networking event or meeting to find out more about their work and opportunities to join.

Afterwards

• Follow up on your conversations from all the networking– set up virtual coffees, introduce colleagues or share the article you discussed. It’s easy to get caught up in business as usual when you return home so set some time aside in your diary for IBA follow up.
• Note new contacts, important conversations and follow up in your CRM system to track relationships across your firm, identify mutual contacts and support key relationships.
• Connect with new contacts on LinkedIn and follow them on X or other social media channels. Write a blog post on key takeaways from the IBA to post on your firm’s website and/or your LinkedIn profile? This is a great way to add value after the IBA and also share key takeaways with colleagues, peers and clients.
• If you are not an IBA member and want to join after experiencing the annual conference you can do so online here.
• Save the date: the IBA Annual Conference heads to Mexico City next year, 15 – 20 September.

Finally… some tips from colleagues on the Law Firm Management Committee: ‘it’s a marathon, not a sprint’ and ‘wear flat shoes even if you swear blind you won’t need them’! What are your top tips? Join the 2023 IBA Annual Conference discussion on LinkedIn #IBAParis.