Take notes: Launch your favourite word processor in a separate window on your computer screen. Take notes as you listen to presentations or partake in virtual conversations.
Collect contacts: Add the names, titles, e-mails and phone numbers of fellow conference participants to your contact database. It's a great way to extend your networking options.
Download handouts: Most virtual conferences include a collection of presentation handouts, white papers and articles. Save these materials for later reference.
After the conference
Complete conference surveys: Your feedback will help presenters make improvements for the next event.
Share with colleagues: Meet with colleagues or e-mail them conference highlights. Review your notes and show them conference handouts. Your experience will be leveraged throughout your organization.
Keep in touch: Contact participants to continue conference discussions, brainstorm ideas or problem solve common organizational issues.
Revisit presentations: Many virtual conferences are accessible days or even weeks after the actual event ends. Go back and collect handouts or visit an archived presentation to refresh your memory on key points made during the conference.
Sandra Mingail, with contribution from Rod Corbett, e-learning specialist at the University of Calgary's faculty of continuing education.
Sandra Mingail is a Toronto-based instructional designer and e-learning strategist.
