How to Network at SEO Conferences When You’re New to the Industry

If you’re heading to your first SEO conference and don’t know anyone, it can feel a little intimidating.

This article breaks down clear, beginner-friendly strategies for making connections that actually stick. From who to talk to and what to say, to how to follow up after – it’s all here.

Start Before You Arrive by Connecting Online

The best way to feel less like a stranger is to start networking before the conference even begins.

Most conferences have LinkedIn event pages, hashtags on X (formerly Twitter), a dedicated conference app like Whova, or even attendee Slack or Discord groups. Join those. Introduce yourself briefly and mention you’re attending for the first time.

This opens the door to meet people who are also going solo – or just friendly by nature. If there’s a speaker you admire or someone from a company you follow, send a short message:

“Looking forward to your talk at [Conference Name]. I’m new to the industry, and excited to learn.”

You don’t need to ask for anything. Just making light, early contact warms up the in-person interaction later.

Use Sessions as Natural Conversation Starters

One of the easiest ways to start a conversation is to comment on the session you both just watched.

After a talk ends, turn to someone nearby and say something simple like, “That was interesting, what did you think?”

It’s a low-pressure way to begin, and most people will respond positively.

You can also mention a specific point you liked or ask what sessions they’re planning to attend next. Conversations at conferences often start with shared context, not clever openers.

If you’re nervous, remember: everyone there already has SEO in common. That gives you a built-in topic.

Attend Social Events, Even if You Don’t Stay Long

Networking often happens in between the official sessions – especially at happy hours, speaker meetups, or sponsored dinners.

You don’t need to stay all night or work the room. Just showing up gives you the chance to meet people in a more relaxed setting.

Look for:

• Welcome mixers or new attendee gatherings
• Sponsor booths hosting casual events
• Coffee breaks with open seating

If you’re shy, set a small goal: introduce yourself to just two new people. That’s it. Once you do, you’ll usually find it easier to keep the momentum going.

Have a Simple Personal Intro Ready

When someone asks what you do, be ready with a quick, clear answer – especially if you’re new to the field.

Keep it conversational and confident, even if you’re just getting started. For example:

“I’m part of the SEO team at a small e-commerce brand. I’m mostly learning right now, but focusing on on-page content.”

Or:

“I just joined an agency doing SEO for local businesses. This is my first conference.”

Most people won’t care how advanced you are – they just want a bit of context. A simple, honest intro works better than trying to impress.

Attend Fringe Events to Connect Beyond the Conference Floor

Fringe events are unofficial gatherings organized by attendees outside the main conference schedule – and they’re some of the best places to make real connections.

These side events often include private workshops, group dinners, casual meetups, or shared hobby outings like hiking, boxing, or street photography walks.

Some are free, some require a small fee, but most are open to anyone who spots the invite in time.

You’ll usually find these events mentioned in conference hashtags on X or LinkedIn, the official event app, or word of mouth once you’re at the venue.

Fringe events are less formal and more intimate than conference sessions. You’ll meet people in a relaxed setting, without the time pressure of a talk starting in five minutes.

If you’re new, this can be a low-key way to bond with others over shared interests – not just shared job titles.

Whether it’s grabbing tacos with a group after day one, joining a 7am run, or sitting in on a casual roundtable, these moments often lead to the most memorable and lasting professional relationships.

Ask Questions More Than You Talk About Yourself

A great way to be remembered (and liked) is to be curious.

Ask other attendees what brought them to the conference or what kinds of projects they’re working on. People usually enjoy sharing their experiences, and it takes the pressure off you to talk too much about your own background.

Try:

• “What session are you most looking forward to?”
• “Have you been to this event before?”
• “What kind of SEO work do you do?”

You don’t have to force it. Keep it natural, like you would in any professional setting.

Use Your Badge, Social Cues, and Shared Moments

Your name tag is a conversation tool. So are shirts with company logos, speaker ribbons, or anything that shows where someone is from.

If you notice someone works at a company you follow, say so. If they’re from the same city, mention it. Shared points like this often spark quick, friendly exchanges.

Also, don’t overlook the people sitting next to you or standing in the lunch line. Some of the most useful connections start as small, offhand chats.

Follow Up While the Conference Is Still Fresh

The real value of networking shows up after the conference… if you follow up.

Send a quick LinkedIn request or message within a few days. Mention something specific from your conversation, even if it was brief.

This turns a fleeting moment into a real connection. You don’t need to follow up with everyone, but a few meaningful ones can go a long way.

Networking Gets Easier with Practice

If you’re new to SEO, conferences are one of the best ways to get plugged into the community.

You don’t need to be an expert or an extrovert – just curious, open, and present.

The more you show up and engage, the more natural it becomes. Start small, keep it simple, and focus on building genuine connections one person at a time.