Every profession uses different platform to collaborate with pupil and their work. Academic conferences are one of such platforms where budding and experienced researchers collaborates. It is a medium to develop networks and also to showcase research work. Conferences are good to increase your research performance credits. It always remain a question what to attend and what to leave in case of academic conferences. Here are some answers
Make a Plan–
- National or institute level conferences in your institute or nearby institute.
- National level conferences in reputed institutes.
- International level conferences in reputed institutes in your home country.
- International level conferences organized by reputed home country institute/ university in collaboration with reputed foreign institute/university.
- International level conference organized by reputed foreign institute/ university outside your home country
- World level conference organized by either your home country reputed institute/ university or foreign country reputed institute/university.
Learn step by step–
Moving step by step will prepare you to be professional. Initially, starting with institute level or conferences nearby to your home city will provide you many benefits. The demands at local level are easy to meet. This will make your work acceptable for presentation easily. Presentation among your peer group develops your confidence and prepares you for next step. In this way, you will find tips and time to prepare for your next level.
Find a Mentor–
In academics, research is a obvious process and need to be sharpen with time.Find a mentor to guide you through the route of your research journey. Your mentor could be your Research project guide or doctoral supervisor. Any experienced researcher of your field could also be your mentor. Mentor will make your work easy as their experience know how to turn complicated work in to feasible form.
Networking-
Most of the research activities aims at collaboration and making networks. When you move in conferences you meet new people around your place, outside your city and even outside your country. Thus, this platform is an opportunity to let people know your skills and capabilities. Remember networking is the key for career success. So, grab the opportunity and attend conferences with attitude of learning and networking both.
Time–
Time is money. Set your goals for conferences according to time limit. Let’s say, “I will attend at least three conferences in a year”. For rest of your research credit scores there are other academic activities too. After you get well known with national or institute level conferences move for next level. At least three at every level is required to get ready for next step.
Some hidden points not to miss:
Cost- Conferences at every level demands to spend money. No doubt their benefits are also great. As you move up the ladder so the cost also moves up. Better to plan your money matters beforehand.
Time- Presenting and preparation of papers do take a good amount of time. Moreover, timely response to registrations and other queries also steal your time with your daily routine work.