6 Ways [+ Free Tool] to Grow Your Network at the IFA Convention

The International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Convention is the largest franchising event of the year. Whether you’re an avid or seasoned networker, or the idea of trying to meet new people in a room of 4,000+ people fills you with dread, we’ve put together these tips to help you create meaningful connections and make the most of your time at the event. 

6 Tips to Make the Most of the IFA Convention

1. Plan ahead to cover the most ground. Check out the conference schedule in advance and plan which sessions and events are a must-attend. If multiple people from your team are attending, make a plan to divide and conquer so you can collectively maximize the education and networking opportunities.

2. Make it easy and convenient to exchange contact info. Create a virtual business card on your phone with a QR code that people you meet can easily scan with their phone to automatically save your details. The team at FBR created one and loved it so much that we shared it with our clients, and we’re happy to share it with you, too. We’ve even provided detailed instructions on how to customize it with your company logo and LinkedIn profile. Access the instructions and free template here. 

FREE NETWORKING TOOL: Digital Business Card Template
Download this free, customizable  digital business card template, complete with step-by-step instructions on how to easily add it to your phone with your contact information, LinkedIn profile, and company logo and website. 
Download Now

3. Get there early. Even though the opening general session isn’t until Monday, social events on Sunday, including the Big Game Watch Party, is a great way to ease in and meet people.

4. Say yes! Franchising is ALL about relationships, so go to the New Member & First-Time Attendee Reception (if you’re a newbie) and awards celebrations, take advantage of scheduled networking opportunities, and be open to invitations to parties, dinners, cocktail hours, etc. (especially if they’re from FBR–always the highlight of the conference!). 

5. Hit the Roundtables. The Thought Leadership Roundtables are a great way to get ideas and see what’s working for other franchisors. Even if (or especially if) if you don’t love traditional networking, these small group discussions make breaking the ice easy. 

6. Schedule meetings in advance. This is your chance to get face time with as many people as possible. Set up 15-minute meetings to connect with the people you want to see. (It can be busy and loud on the exhibit floor, so look for coffee or times when you don’t have sessions scheduled).

Finally, don’t skip the Exhibit Hall. The suppliers aren’t just there to “sell” you – most are happy just to chat and share ideas. Most of them have worked with hundreds or thousands of franchisors over the years and have great insights into challenges franchisors experience and a wealth of information about solutions that have worked.

We’ll be at Booth #925, hosting award-winning franchisors who are also always happy to share what’s working for them and we are happy to make introductions. And be sure to bring your FBR digital business card so you can connect again post-event!

The “Must-Attend” Event of the Year

The IFA Convention is a fantastic experience for anyone and everyone in franchising, but if you’re looking for a more intimate conference experience focused on practical, hands-on takeaways, the FBR Summit is the must-attend event of the year.  

Held in Austin, TX, the Summit is where you can connect with franchise operations leaders, managers, FBCs, field support, and HR  pros. It’s designed specifically for franchise operations leaders and their teams that directly support franchisees. And because it’s a smaller event, there’s opportunity for real magic to happen. So if you’re looking for individualized learning, deeper connections, and face time with franchise thought leaders and keynotes, we invite you to experience the Summit. Register now to save your seat before it’s sold out.

The ONLY Event Designed Just for Franchise Operations Teams

How can you make an immediate and lasting impact on your franchisees’ success? Find out at the FBR Summit, October 22-24 in Austin, TX. The Summit is an intensive, event created just for franchise operations leaders and their teams that directly support franchisees. Don’t miss it!

REGISTER NOW