How to Make the Most of Your UKREiiF Experience - Top 10 Tips
Are you getting ready for the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds? As one of the premier Built Environment trade conventions in the UK, UKREiiF offers a plethora of opportunities for networking, learning, and business growth. However, making the most of such a large-scale event can be overwhelming without proper planning and strategy.
Our Creative Director Tanisha Raffiuddin recently hosted a Q&A Seminar with UKREiiF Director Nathan Spencer, in collaboration with Women in Architecture, where they discussed their top tips to navigate UKREiiF before, during, and after the conference…
So we'll walk you through some essential tips to ensure you maximise your experience.
1 - Have a plan of action to network strategically
Networking is one of the primary reasons people attend UKREiiF. Be proactive and strategic by using the delegate directory to research attendees and exhibitors beforehand, reach out to key contacts, and schedule meetings in advance. Don't forget to bring plenty of business cards and be prepared with your elevator pitch. Your first conversations may be on your train journey to Leeds!
2 - Download the conference programme
This year you are able to export the programme in Excel. The programme is expansive so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the programme ahead of time to shortlist the events you would like to attend, and the various stages and pavilions to work out where you need to be and when.
3 - Understand the layout of the site
There are pavilions spread out across the site that are dedicated to different regions of the UK, so ensure you know where your preferred region is, and where to find it. These are the areas you are most likely to network with people relevant to your business.
4 - Attend relevant sessions
With a diverse lineup of speakers and topics, UKREiiF offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Attend relevant sessions to stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies. Be sure to participate actively by asking questions and engaging in discussions. You can also attend UKREiiF Fringe events to engage with new networking circles. You will have to register for Fringe events separately.
5 - Arrive early at conference sessions
Plan to arrive 10 minutes before the session kicks off, as the popular events tend to fill up quickly and you may miss out if the room has reached capacity.
6 - Allow for travel time and serendipitous meetings between event locations
The conference site and fringe events are spread out across various locations in Leeds, allow time for interaction with other attendees while you travel between locations, because you may bump into clients and colleagues and have a quick catch up.
7 - Map out your meeting spaces
UKREiiF is laying on a large amount of meeting spaces free of charge with your entry ticket. This year they have two new locations to accommodate the growing needs for spaces to have that coffee meeting with your newest networking connection.
8 - Stay nourished and hydrated
UKREiiF is a three day event, with long hours of networking and learning, so it's essential to prioritise your health and well-being to enable you to feel energised and focused throughout. Stay hydrated, fuel your body with nutritious food, and take short breaks to recharge when needed. A clear mind and healthy body will enhance your overall experience.
9 - Follow up and follow through after the conference
The connections and insights gained at UKREiiF shouldn't end when the convention does. Follow up with new contacts promptly, send thank-you notes, and explore opportunities for further collaboration or discussion. Leveraging the momentum from the event can lead to long-term relationships and business growth.
10 - Don’t forget your battery pack
Over the course of a day of networking and taking photos and videos, and navigating the conference, your phone will lose charge quickly. Carry a battery pack for your phone, just don’t forget to charge it overnight!
As you gear up for UKREiiF 2024, remember that preparation and strategic planning are the keys to success. Ensure you are fueled well and prepared to make every moment count, seize every opportunity, and forge lasting connections that propel your career or business to new heights. And don't forget to pack comfortable shoes!
Concept Culture will be attending UKREiiF 2024. We look forward to seeing you in Leeds!
Are you looking for advice on how to create an engaging brand for your development?
If you need help defining your target audience, developing your place narrative, expressing your place story, or ensuring your story reaches your audience, please get in touch. We’d love to offer you tailored branding and marketing support to grow and elevate your place brand through the power of storytelling.
Get in touch to book a meeting with our Creative Director Tanisha Raffiuddin in Leeds.
OR
Book a discovery call with us to discuss your branding needs.
