Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) is not just a tech and design conference—it’s a unique event where business deals, collaborations, and impactful partnerships are made. Set against the...
Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) is not just a tech and design conference—it’s a unique event where business deals, collaborations, and impactful partnerships are made. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Philippines' beaches, GOAB provides an informal yet highly productive environment for networking. Whether you are a startup founder, business owner, or tech professional, the networking opportunities at GOAB are unparalleled. Here are 10 best practices to help you make the most of your networking efforts at GOAB.
Why It Works: Networking at any event can be overwhelming if you don’t have a clear purpose. Are you seeking investors, collaborators, or mentors? Set specific goals for what you want to achieve during the event. GOAB provides access to a diverse crowd of industry leaders, so having clarity on what you want will guide your conversations and maximize your time.
GOAB Advantage: With a curated list of speakers and sessions, GOAB gives you the chance to plan which individuals or companies to connect with, whether during workshops or at beachside meetups.
Why It Works: Take time to research the attendees and speakers before arriving. Know who the key players are in your industry, what they’re working on, and how you can add value to their goals. This knowledge will make your conversations more impactful.
GOAB Advantage: The intimate setting of GOAB makes it easier to approach industry leaders. When you're prepared, you can jump into relevant discussions with confidence and make a lasting impression.
Why It Works: Networking is about building relationships, not just making sales pitches. Focus on meaningful conversations by asking insightful questions and showing genuine interest in others' projects or challenges. Share your experiences and ideas naturally—this approach builds trust.
GOAB Advantage: GOAB’s relaxed atmosphere encourages deeper, more authentic conversations. Use the informal setting to build connections that go beyond transactional networking.
Why It Works: Some of the best networking happens outside of formal sessions. Use social spaces like lunch breaks, beach walks, and evening events to engage with fellow attendees in a more casual environment. These moments often lead to spontaneous ideas and collaborations.
GOAB Advantage: The beachside setting and planned social activities at GOAB create a perfect environment for low-pressure networking. From casual drinks to beachside chats, the event encourages conversations in a stress-free environment.
Why It Works: Listening more than you speak allows you to understand the other person’s needs and challenges. This makes your follow-up more personal and targeted, leading to more meaningful and valuable connections.
GOAB Advantage: GOAB’s mix of workshops, panels, and meetups offers numerous opportunities to listen to experts and peers. By focusing on listening, you’ll gain insights into potential collaborations and business opportunities.
Why It Works: Networking doesn’t stop at the event. Collect contact information and send personalized follow-ups within a few days of the conference. Refer to your conversation during the event, and offer something of value—whether it’s a resource, an introduction, or collaboration ideas.
GOAB Advantage: GOAB’s smaller size allows for more personalized interactions, making follow-ups more relevant and impactful. A thoughtful message referencing your conversations at the beach or during a session can leave a lasting impression.
Why It Works: Workshops and small group discussions are a great way to meet like-minded individuals who share your interests. These sessions often foster deeper discussions and create the perfect setting for networking with key individuals.
GOAB Advantage: GOAB’s diverse set of workshops and interactive sessions are designed to encourage collaboration. These smaller, focused groups provide the perfect opportunity to connect with individuals working in similar fields.
Why It Works: People can tell when you're being authentic, and genuine connections often lead to more fruitful collaborations. Be yourself, share your passion for your work, and show interest in the goals and challenges of others.
GOAB Advantage: The laid-back atmosphere at GOAB makes it easier to be yourself and have authentic conversations. The event’s vibe promotes genuine connection over superficial exchanges.
Why It Works: Use platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram to engage with other attendees before, during, and after the event. Join event hashtags and post insights, quotes, or takeaways from the sessions. This can expand your networking reach and help you connect with people you didn’t meet in person.
GOAB Advantage: GOAB is known for its active social media presence. Engaging with the event hashtag (#GOAB and #GOAB2024) before and during the event can help you identify key individuals to meet and extend your reach beyond the beach.
Why It Works: Sometimes, the most valuable connections come from unexpected places. Stay open-minded and engage with people from different industries, backgrounds, or areas of expertise. You never know where a conversation might lead.
GOAB Advantage: GOAB brings together a diverse mix of startups, investors, and tech leaders. Its open, collaborative environment encourages networking across sectors, leading to unexpected partnerships and new ideas.
GOAB offers a unique combination of an intimate setting, a relaxed atmosphere, and high-caliber attendees. It’s a place where you can have meaningful conversations, connect with leaders in the tech and design space, and take part in sessions that go beyond theory—focusing on practical outcomes. Whether you're pitching your startup or seeking new business opportunities, GOAB provides a networking environment unlike any other.
Secure your spot at GOAB this November, and start building the connections that will help you grow your business.
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7th Annual Geeks On A Beach (GOAB) International Tech Startup Conference
Venue: https://www.jparkislandresort.com/
Mactan, Cebu, Philippines
GOAB is an annual international conference for those who are passionate about tech, startups, design and making the world brighter.
GOAB is organized by a non-profit organization first established in 2013 with a mission to boost the tech, startup, business and investment sectors in the Philippines and beyond.
November 14-15, 2024 Conference (9am to 5pm)
November 13, 2024 Masterclass (9am to 5pm)
November 13, 2024 Investor Dinner (4pm to 7pm)
Purchase discounted GOAB tickets: GeeksOnABeach.com
Book discounted hotel rooms: https://www.geeksonabeach.com/venue
Partner with us! Email hello@geeksonabeach.com
