Conferences and congresses are becoming more essential for field medical professionals who support the industry. They create rare opportunities to spark interest, share insights, and build relationships in real time.

 But visibility alone isn’t enough. In a crowded space where attention is limited and interest must be earned, your approach matters just as much—if not more—than your initial message.

 The difference often comes down to those first few seconds: how you introduce yourself, how you frame your science, and whether you listen more than you speak. The goal isn’t to deliver everything—it’s to open the door to a deeper conversation.

 This module equips MSLs and other professionals to lead with clarity and credibility in fast-moving conversations—whether at a congress, in a hallway interaction, or during an unplanned moment of access. Because how you begin can define what comes next.

Skills covered include:


• How to plan ahead to maximize your time and presence at a congress

• How to triage the attendee list to prioritize meaningful “chance interactions”

• Seven tips for building immediate rapport the first time you meet someone

• Four nonverbal strategies to appear engaged without coming across as salesy

• The questions that signal genuine curiosity and build trust

• Why being interested in others is the fastest way to become interesting to them

• How to tell if your counterpart wants more time with you—or doesn’t

• How to share just enough about your science to spark curiosity, not overload

• How to ask for the next meeting in a way that increases follow-through