Educational, Networking Opportunities for Hospitalists Abound at HM13

Networking is Just That: Working

Don’t underestimate the value of person-to-person networking at HM13, as meeting veterans and organizers say the chance to rub elbows with national leaders is a major draw.

“Networking is incredibly important for most hospitalists for a number of different reasons,” Dr. Brotman says. “I think at the very basic level, it helps you to commiserate, because I think that oftentimes it’s easy to feel frustrated by how things are at your own institution. Just being around people who have those similar frustrations and challenges can really help to keep things in perspective and realize [you’re] not alone.”

Dr. Simone says networking is his No. 1 draw for attending the annual meeting. And hobnobbing with folks isn’t something he limits to pre-scheduled times.

“You have so much talent and such a diversity of professionals at that conference that it’s worth everyone’s while to network,” he adds. “Networking happens in the halls. Networking happens in the conference rooms before the lectures; it happens in the exhibit hall. It happens during the poster session; it happens in the hotel lobby. There are lots of different opportunities.”

Tips for a Successful HM13

1. Go. You can’t win if you don’t play.
2. Network aggressively. You can’t build a long-term relationship at a four-day meeting. But you can certainly kick one off on the right foot.
3. Wear your nametag and carry business cards. It’s a friendly meeting, so take advantage and be ready for others to do the same.
4. Expect the unexpected. Don’t plan the meeting so full you can’t take advantage of an impromptu meeting or networking opportunity.
5. Let SHM help. Visit www.hospitalmedicine2013.org for advice and check out the “HM13 at Hand” mobile application for smartphones and tablets.
6. Attend the speeches. Patrick Conway and Bob Wachter are HM rock stars, and David Feinberg is a national expert on patient centeredness. Hear what they have to say.
7. Nightlife. Part of an annual meeting is enjoying a few days away from the grind of work. Meet new friends for dinner or drinks to recharge your batteries.