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One of Toastmasters’ most anticipated events of the year—the International Convention—is almost here! This year’s convention will be a hybrid event hosted in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and it offers attendees the opportunity to learn new skills and network with others.
Whether you are attending in person or watching online, you’re about to experience an inspiring event where you will make connections, have fun, learn new skills, and create memories with a global community of Toastmasters.
Planning ahead for this expansive event, to be held August 20–23, allows you to focus on your goals, increase your learning opportunities, and fully enjoy the experience.
Take these nine steps to make the most of convention.
Determine your goals.
From networking opportunities, to having fun, to supporting a contestant in the final rounds of the International Speech Contest, there are many reasons to attend the convention. Think about why you are attending and what you hope to gain from the experience. Is there a particular skill you want to learn or a speaker you want to listen to? Write down each goal and be specific about what you want to accomplish.
Identifying your goals before the event helps you decide what sessions to attend, who to connect with, and even what to bring. During the convention, review your goals periodically to check your progress and make adjustments to your itinerary.
Plan what sessions to attend.
Once you are clear on your goals, plan your schedule. The convention agenda is packed with important information about events, speakers, times, and more. There are education sessions, workshops, social activities, the World Championship, the Annual Business Meeting, and so much more. Many sessions are concurrent so identify ahead of time which events interest you and align with your objectives.
Keep those memories, connections, and inspirations with you as you head into the new program year!
Decide who you want to network with.
From social activities to meet-and-greets with speakers, the International Convention is the perfect opportunity to network with others. Before the event, identify who you want to connect with. Research the different speakers, ask your fellow club members if they are attending, and visit social media platforms to see if anyone has posted about going. Find someone who works in your desired career field or someone who has similar interests and consider sending them a message to introduce yourself beforehand.
And make it easy for people to connect with you. Ensure your LinkedIn profile, website, and any other platform you use are up-to-date so others can learn more about you. Use the hashtag #Toastmasters2025 online so other attendees can easily see your posts.
Prepare an elevator pitch.
Before any networking event, it is helpful to craft a brief, 30-second speech (i.e., an elevator pitch) to introduce yourself to others, and explain who you are, what you do, and what your key strengths are.
Depending on your goals, you might want to prepare several elevator pitches, each tailored to a different audience. For example, if you want to meet someone in a specific career, highlight your interest in their field and any relevant skills you possess. If you want to make new friends, focus on your interests and hobbies.
Once you have crafted your wording, practice introducing yourself to others so you can jump into conversations with confidence.
Review your conversation résumé.
In addition to crafting an elevator pitch, plan a conversation résumé. Unlike a typical résumé where you list your job experience, education, and skills, a conversation résumé is a mental note to yourself of potential talking points should you need a conversation starter. Think about a recent vacation you took, or an interesting current event, or a favorite movie or TV show. Anything that might spark conversation is good to include. Review your list before attending an event so the topics are fresh in your mind.
Research the area
If you are attending in person, research what’s around the Pennsylvania Convention Center. From historical sites to art scenes to famous cuisines, Philadelphia has something for everyone. Get some inspiration from World Champion and Philadelphia native Aaron Beverly’s recommendations. When you arrive onsite, look for the Customer Service/Hospitality Host Committee Chair near the registration desk—they’re available to assist with city-specific questions, such as where to eat, what sites to visit, and how to navigate public transit.
Review the convention details.
At least one week before the event, you will receive a “Know Before You Go” email, which will include details on what to bring, the dress code, weather, and where to find the registration desk.
You will also receive information on how to download and access the convention mobile app, where you’ll find the agenda and an interactive digital map. Be sure to download the app, set your personal schedule, and familiarize yourself with the meeting space before you arrive.
Gather the essentials.
As you start packing, don’t forget basic items, such as your passport and identification card (ID), flight information, and hotel details. Ensure you have access to your convention confirmation for a smooth registration process upon arrival to the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown.
Review your plans and determine any other items to bring—a favorite notebook and pen, business cards, or small souvenirs to trade. If you plan to attend the Annual Business Meeting, bring an electronic device to vote with during the event. (Remember to pack your chargers too!)
If you are streaming the available convention sessions online, rather than watching in person, prepare your workspace beforehand and gather any materials you may need. Log in to the digital platform before the session and become familiar with the video player. Set up a calendar reminder for the sessions you want to watch live so you do not miss the events, and remember to take notes.
Do a post-convention review.
Once the event is over, don’t forget one of the most meaningful steps: reflection. How many of your goals did you accomplish? What are your biggest takeaways from the experience? Did you learn any new skills? Do you have a new enthusiasm or inspiration for your Toastmasters club? Who did you connect with and how will you reach out to them to keep the connection alive?
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Mackenzie Eldred is editorial coordinator for the Toastmaster magazine. Reach her at meldred@toastmasters.org.
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