The NFPW Education Fund awarded several grants to cover the NFPW conference registration fee for first-timers. Whether you are a first-timer or attending your twentieth conference, here are a few tips for getting the most out of a conference:

Participate in POWER Networking. This event is held on the first day of the conference and is an easy way to meet about a dozen members. Then you can follow-up with them throughout the conference and afterwards. Even if you are an introvert, you’ll enjoy this event.

Bring plenty of business cards. You’ll want to share them as part of POWER Networking. You’ll also want to share them throughout the conference. When you do meet someone and exchange business cards, make a note on the back of the person’s card so you’ll recall the encounter and will have a reason to follow-up.

Highlighters are handy to have with you to mark what sessions you want to attend at a conference.

Review the schedule. The conference is jam-packed with workshop sessions, banquets and networking opportunities. Take a moment when you first arrive to highlight or circle the activities you must want to do. This will help prevent you from overlooking an activity.

Talk to someone you don’t know. Who knows, they may not know anyone either and you will each have a new acquaintance. I look forward to conferences now because I have made so many friends from across the United States.

Schedule time to explore. One of the best parts of NFPW conferences are the pre- and post-tours, as well as the day tours. Even if you weren’t able to participate in those, take a few hours to check out the neighborhood. This year’s conference is in Scottsdale, known for its breathtaking landscape, upscale shopping and ArtWalks. You’ll also want to check out the hotel, a former Hollywood hideaway. Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner wed at the hotel.