Networking and making new friends in the specialty is one of the best parts about ACEP events like the upcoming 2023 Scientific Assembly, but it’s also a bit mysterious. How exactly does one “work the room” and start conversations with strangers? It can feel unnatural, right?

The leaders of ACEP’s Young Physician Section have been successful growing their networks, and these are their best tips for how to use your time at ACEP23 to meet new people and connect with peers across the country:

“Contact your residency program or affiliated group to see if they’re organizing networking dinners. These are common in the evenings and are a great way to touch base with some friendly, familiar faces while away from home. Sign up for at least one skills workshop. They are always high-quality, and this is a great way to polish your skills while working hands-on with peers from across the country. These are typically run by people you want to know.”

—John Corker, MD, FACEP

“I have a separate contact card on my phone that is my professional business card. Makes it easier to share my contact information with new people I meet while giving me more control over what information is shared. I have my degrees on my name on that contact so it’s easy for me to know which is my personal phone contact and which is my professional one.”

—Scott Pasichow, MD, FACEP

“I’ve never been great at faking small talk, so my best advice is that when you’re meeting people, find something they know about that you have genuine interest in—their hobby, where they live, if they’ve eaten at an interesting restaurant lately, etc. This will keep you engaged in the conversation without feeling like you’re “networking” and will help you remember something about the person that you can tap into later.”

—Jordan Warchol, MD, MPH, FACEP

“Introduce yourself and explain your interest for the field of emergency medicine. You never know when a networking opportunity turns into an advisor. If it’s someone you want to keep in touch with, schedule a time to meet with them. Advisors can become your advocates! Having an advocate in your corner is more important than ever.”

—Sara Andrabi, MD, FACEP| YPS Past Secretary