Eager to talk shop with someone who understands adult learning theory or knows about the four levels of evaluation? Been dying to ask the author of your just-read L&D book a question about where he came up with the idea for the book (or even what the process was like)? Hope to gather new ideas for your chapter events, benefits, and other resources?
We all know how great it feels when someone “gets” you, and that’s what you’re apt to experience during one of the many networking opportunities ATD21 affords. Networking Night, receptions, Meet-to-Eat gatherings, and author events are some of the planned ways to connect with your L&D peers. In addition, because ATD21 extends beyond Salt Lake City to virtual attendees, you can connect with others via the ATD Virtual Lounge.
Networking Night
A perennial favorite, Networking Night will feature a parlor game, dance party, and concert, along with great food and beverages. The theme of the evening, “Brews & Bingo,” will replicate a high-energy game show with prizes and a lively atmosphere. Straight No Chaser, a male a cappella group, will provide the evening’s musical entertainment. SAP Litmos is sponsoring the Tuesday, August 31, event, which runs from 7–10 p.m. Virtual attendees with VIP access can also take part in Networking Night and watch the Straight No Chaser concert.
Separate tickets for Networking Night are required for ATD21 attendees. If you’ve purchased a ticket, it will automatically be added to your agenda. VIP pass holders have Networking Night tickets included in their package.
Receptions
Whether you’re a sales enablement pro, senior leader, certified professional, chapter leader, or member of an international delegation, there are receptions tailored to you. Search Pathable, the ATD21 conference platform, for times and dates and whether the event is by invite-only or requires a reservation.
Meet to Eat
Extend your networking and join fellow L&D professionals between sessions or at the close of the conference day for a meal. Starting Sunday, ATD21’s Meet-to-Eat program offers the daily lunch and dinner opportunities to try out some delicious food at a preselected restaurant in Salt Lake City with fellow attendees. (Note only lunch is offered on Wednesday, September 1). Sign up via Pathable.
Virtual Networking
Want to connect with peers around the globe? Explore the virtual networking opportunities available throughout the day. We’ve created networking events focused around hot topics to engage and discuss some of the most pressing issues facing our field today. Join your colleagues for a face-to-face Zoom discussion and make a new connection. During the session, we’ll break into small groups to discuss ways to develop soft skills. An ATD Facilitator will help guide conversation and break attendees into smaller groups to dive deep into the topic. Please note: You will need Zoom Meetings installed on your device to participate.
Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more fun, join a “Virtual Hallway Chat.” By completing your profile setup and answering a few questions, you’ll be paired with a small group that shares similar interests. Maximize your event connections this way. Please note, these interactive sessions take place off-platform. You’ll be directed to sign-in (name and email) to the Mixtroz platform to participate (link provided within the session on the conference platform).
Bookstore Reception
Begin networking immediately. Visit the ATD Store Saturday afternoon from 4:30–6 p.m. Meet authors, check out new books (merchandise will be discounted by 10 percent), and chat with other conference attendees. Refreshments will be served. Learn more about other events and promotions taking place at the ATD Bookstore throughout the conference.
These are just a sampling of the many ways you can connect with colleagues and peers during ATD21. If you have questions about these events or other opportunities, email [email protected]. No matter how you connect, ATD21 is sure to expand your development and learning.