Blog: Tips for first-time attendees of orthopedic conferences
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Key takeaways:
- Create some goals for your first meeting and familiarize yourself with the content being presented.
- After the meeting, reflect on the experiences had and the information learned.
You just returned from a major academic conference for your medical specialty. It is time to relax, reflect and unwind.
I remember my first time. Do you remember yours?
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting is a major event. It is the flagship event for anything and everything related to orthopedic surgery. It takes place in large cities throughout the United States — Las Vegas, San Francisco, Orlando, Chicago, among others.
It was an experience. The convention center was large, and there were people everywhere. Escalators, elevators, maps and even kind staff members to help direct you when you were lost. I was intimidated. I was nervous.
At least I was dressed properly. I had the suit and tie and the clean, polished shoes. I had my messenger bag over my shoulder and a coffee cup in my hand. Everyone seemed to have the same distinct look within the conference hall. This was the orthopedic strut — a walk and demeanor that symbolized confidence or expertise within the community.
I learned. I interacted. I networked. I met new people and I saw old friends, some of whom I had not seen in many years.
Unforgettable experience
As I reflect on the many conferences I have attended, whether it was regional, national or subspecialty based, I see how the first experience may be an unforgettable one. There are many meetings to choose from and each meeting has its own distinct personality. Each conference is designed to perform academic duties and implements certain strategies to achieve these. Many conferences rotate through some of the largest cities in the country while others serve as an exotic destination.
In the orthopedic world, the competition is stiff. While conference organizers may deny this, not all conferences are created equal. If you are a fellowship-trained surgeon, you most definitely are attending your subspecialty society meeting.
Is there such a thing as attending too many meetings? Perhaps, but you need to be careful who you ask. Remember, most of the seasoned surgeons run these meetings and provide podium talks around the circuit.
Is that what our goal is? For some, yes. Being on the podium or an invited lecturer is an honor. To others, it may be a “box being checked” to obtain one’s desired academic promotion. It may also be purely a reunion of sorts. A chance to reconvene and rehash old times with co-residents, students, former colleagues and partners during various meals throughout the conference. And then there are some attendees who need the CME credit.
But you cannot please everyone. This is why there are many that survive outside of the major academies. As you think about the next business trip you are taking to advance your clinical acumen, be sure you are picking the best conference for you and do not worry about what is going on in the background.
Key strategies
Being at an academic orthopedic surgery conference can be extremely overwhelming. By approaching with preparation, an open mind and a willingness to connect with others, you will be setting yourself up to thrive and have a successful first conference — a significant professional milestone.
To maximize your experience and make the most of this time away, consider these proposed key strategies.
Preparation
Part of attending an orthopedic conference is understanding the many learning opportunities available to you. These opportunities may come in various forms and may be beneficial if you prefer learning in a specific way.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the content being presented and understand there may be multiple forums from which to choose. Also, understand that you cannot be in more than one place at a time. Identify the courses, symposia and lectures you wish to attend and prioritize them as best you can.
Create some goals for your first meeting. If there are certain people you wish to meet or techniques you want to try, having clear objectives will ensure you focus your time appropriately.
Although this is not a dress to impress event, please be respectful of the environment. While there is no specific dress code, professional attire is recommended. Be sure to dress comfortably and with confidence.
Strategy for networking
These conferences involve a lot of people, and this is a great time to meet someone new. It is possible to meet mentors — both old and new — and identify where a mutually beneficial relationship may exist.
Do not be afraid to introduce yourself. Everyone attending the conference is looking to connect and learn. Prepare an elevator pitch about yourself that is concise and involves who you are and what type of work you do.
Along the way you may be invited to many social events. These are prime opportunities to enhance your network and meet new people. The relaxed nature of these events provides an atmosphere to approach someone outside of the conference hall.
Content
Depending on your level of training, some of the material may be more advanced. Do not shy away. Engage with the content and write notes for reference when you have more time to further research an area of interest.
Be sure to ask questions. This can occur during a lecture or after. In fact, having questions and discussing with lecturers or panelists will make you more memorable for future encounters. It may also help foster a long-term collaboration.
Follow-up, reflection
Throughout the conference you may engage in many conversations that require additional dialogue. Be sure to follow through with your commitment and send a brief note expressing your appreciation for their time and conversation. This gesture can go a long way in building a lasting professional relationship.
On your drive or flight home, it is important to take the time to reflect on the experiences you had and the information you learned. Create a “to-do” list involving possible research applications or practice adjustments based on the material reviewed.
Chances are the feelings you are experiencing are not unique to you. Understand that this is a new experience for you and many others.
Be sure to be open minded. Being out of your comfort zone can serve as a great steppingstone for professional and personal growth. This hopefully is a first of many, so be sure to enjoy the experience.
Adam D. Bitterman, DO, of the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, can be reached at abitterman@northwell.edu.
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