How to Pick the Right Side Events: A Guide for Web3 B2B Pros
In the world of Web3 conferences, side events are where the real action happens. They’re the go-to spots for meeting new connections, discovering fresh insights, and having a bit of fun. But with so many events and only so many hours in a day, how do you know which ones to attend? Here’s a guide to help Web3 business developers make the most out of every conference experience.
1. Prioritize Your Relevant Segments
Start by looking for events that align with your specific segment—whether it’s DeFi, NFTs, RWA, or another Web3 niche. The segment is usually in the event title, making it easier to identify the most relevant gatherings. Once you know what’s aligned with your niche, connect it to your goals: Are you looking to secure investments, generate leads, make connections, or meet potential customers? Having clear goals will help you choose the events that maximize your chances of success.
Pro Tip: Check the number of attendees on the event’s Luma page. The attendee count will help you gauge if it’s an intimate session or a larger gathering. This can be helpful for planning your networking approach.
2. Seek Out Events with Potential Partners
Side events are all about quality connections. Before the conference, review your leads list and see if any key partners (or people working with them) are hosting or attending. Many events display sponsors in the title or image, so if you spot a lead’s name or similar companies, there’s a good chance relevant partners will be there. For example, if you’re interested in cross-chain platforms, check out events where wallets or block explorers might also be attending—they’re likely collaborators or potential partners.
3. Check Out Competitor Events (But Play It Cool)
Keeping tabs on competitors is always a smart move. Competitor events can offer valuable insights into their strategies and focus areas. Just remember: the goal here is to observe, not to swoop in and poach clients. Knowing what others are up to gives you a competitive edge, but the real power lies in understanding the market rather than making any direct moves at these events.
4. Look for Events Hosted by Top Organizers
Some organizers have a knack for pulling in a strong crowd, especially VCs and tier-1 projects. These events often attract a top-tier mix of people, including potential investors, collaborators, and influencers in the Web3 space. These events are often polished and professionally run, making networking easier in a relaxed setting.
5. Balance Fun and Educational Events
Not every side event has to be all business. Aim to attend at least one content-driven educational event and one purely fun gathering. Sometimes, relaxed or educational events foster the most authentic connections. You’ll find people genuinely interested in sharing knowledge, and who knows? That laid-back conversation at a casual workshop could lead to your next big partnership.
6. Factor in the Logistics (Bangkok Traffic, Anyone?)
Let’s face it: getting around at conferences—especially in a city like Bangkok—can be challenging. You don’t want to spend hours stuck in traffic instead of networking. Prioritize events that are easy to reach, especially if you’re short on time. And remember, sometimes the best connections happen by chance, so don’t stress if you can’t make it to everything.
7. Go with the Flow
One of the best things about side events is their unpredictability. Plans change, and often the most meaningful connections happen spontaneously. Keep an open mind and be ready to adapt. Sometimes the best move is to follow the energy, whether that means joining a last-minute event or staying longer at one that’s buzzing. Flexibility is key, and you never know where the right conversation may lead.
Final Thoughts
Choosing side events can feel overwhelming, but with a bit of planning and flexibility, you can make the most of your time. Make sure to sign up in advance, as these events fill up quickly. Prioritize segments aligned with your goals, seek out quality connections, and, above all, enjoy the experience. In Web3, the magic is often in the unexpected connections you make along the way.
