10 Ways to
Make Networking Easier

Get the most out of the
TEAMS Conference!

Hey there, conference-goer! The TEAMS Conference and Expo is right around the corner, and the Discover Santa Clara team is all set to network in Palm Beach!

We understand you're here to learn, connect, and perhaps score some free swag, but let's be honest – networking at conferences can sometime feel a bit like trying to make friends in a crowded elevator if your execution is off.

Fear not, because we've got your back with these 10 effective ways to navigate the maze of conference networking. Buckle up, as we're about to delve into the art of connecting with your fellow humans!

  1. Have Clear Goals and Objectives | Look, we get it – you're here to network, not wander around like a lost puppy. Before you even put on that fancy badge and showcase your undoubtedly snazzy conference attire (because, let's face it, you've got style), let's get one thing straight: know your mission. Who do you want to meet? Why? And for heaven's sake, have a plan on how to charm them without accidentally proposing a business partnership on the first handshake.
  2. Avoid the Helicopter Approach | Newsflash: humans don't appreciate being stalked. If you spot someone you're dying to chat with, resist the urge to hover around. Channel your inner smooth operator, confidently stride up (yes, you're fabulous), and start chatting as if you're catching up with your long-lost pen pal. Remember, beneath all that professional aura, they're just regular humans. Quite the shocker, right?
  3. Be Ready with Conversation Starters | So, you've elegantly avoided the hovering around trap, and now you're standing face-to-face with the person of your networking dreams. It's time to whip out those conversation starters that make you sound like a clever blend of a stand-up comedian and a TED Talk speaker. Okay, maybe not all of us are destined for TED Talk stardom. But fear not, just make sure you've got a bunch of engaging and lighthearted openers up your sleeve to keep your potential connection engaged. **Scroll to the end for a few of our favorite openers
  4. Don't be a "Fan-girl" or "Fan-guy"| Sure, that industry influencer you want to chat up might be cooler than a cucumber but resist the urge to geek out. No one wants to be treated like a walking autograph book. (Well, okay, maybe the Discover Santa Clara crew would be open to signing autographs if it means making a new friend 😉). Instead, stay cool, sip on that delicious but pricey latte from the hotel lobby, and go engage in conversation as if they're just your everyday, run-of-the-mill connection. Again, shocker – they're only human, right?
  5. Create a Schedule | Conferences are like theme parks for professionals, minus the roller coasters (usually – though we do have some across the street at Great America in Santa Clara, just saying!). Plan out the sessions, events, and booths you want to visit. Remember, this isn't about catching them all like you're a Pokémon trainer. Prioritize quality over quantity.
  6. Visit the Gym (or on-site Starbucks)| Who would've thought that networking and exercise could be BFFs? If you're a gym rat and hitting the gym is part of your routine, make use of that hotel fitness center. It's a great spot to naturally meet attendees outside the conference madness. And if the gym isn't your thing, we've got an alternative for you – visit Starbucks! Let's be honest, the on-site Starbucks is essentially a caffeinated melting pot of networking opportunities. Nothing says, "Let's talk business" like waiting in line for your quad-shot, oat milk, vegan, ethically sourced, no-foam, half-sweet, skinny caramel macchiato.
  7. Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork | Grab a coworker or a fellow conference-goer (if you're going solo) and form your dynamic duo. Think of it like Batman and Robin, minus the capes (unless that's your style – that would actually make for a great conversation starter, see point 3). Divide and conquer sessions, then regroup for a tag-team approach during networking events. This is the TEAMS Conference after all. You can’t be going to this conference in good conscious if you aren’t a team player. 😉
  8. Provide Value | Networking is a two-way street, and one-sided conversations aren't enjoyable. Share your insights, offer a tip or two, or throw in a witty joke to brighten their day. Remember, you're not just presenting your business card – you're showcasing yourself as someone worth getting to know.
  9. Join Lists for Conference Dinners, Meet-ups, and Parties | Networking at a conference is great, but networking while indulging in tapas and pretending to be a sommelier is even better. Get yourself on those exclusive guest lists for dinners, meet-ups, and parties. Just remember, no matter how tempting after a few drinks, the karaoke machine might not be a good idea.
  10. Follow Up | Ah, the post-conference follow-up – it's like the awkward "who's going to text first" dance, but with less suspense. Reach out to those you've connected with, and not solely to remind them of your existence. Share some insights, an interesting article, or a toss in a fun conference related memory you both shared.

So, there you have it, fearless networker! With these 10 strategies to conquer the wild world of conference networking, you'll be mingling and charming your way to professional success in no time.

And hey, while you're at it, remember to check out Discover Santa Clara at the TEAMS Conference – we'd love to connect with you and be your friend! Fill out the form below if you're going to TEAMS.

**Here are a few of our favorite openers to get you started: 

  • “What has been your favorite sessions so far?”
  • “How long have you been with (INSERT COMPANY/ORG)?”
  • “What are you hoping to get out of this conference?”
  • “Will you be attending other conferences in the near future?”
By Ben Landis | Marketing Manager
Face Palm at TEAMS

Shaking hands at TEAMS

Networking at TEAMS

Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month in Santa Clara 2024: AAPI-Owned Restaurants

By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager at Discover Santa Clara

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. This month is dedicated to celebrating the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders on American culture and society. According to recent census data, Santa Clara has a significant Asian population, comprising 45.9% of the city's demographic makeup, specifically categorized as "Asian alone." 

We are proud to be the home of many Asian-American residents and businesses. There are numerous AAPI-owned businesses spread throughout Santa Clara that we encourage you to explore. Notably, along El Camino Real, there is a stretch of various strip malls containing many fantastic Korean-owned restaurants, an area Santa Clara proudly calls “Koreatown.”

There are countless businesses, and we couldn't possibly name them all, but we recommend researching some spots on Yelp or Google. To get you started, here are some fan-favorite restaurants that the team at Discover Santa Clara has visited and recommended. 

1. Rantei Japanese Cuisine

Rantei Japanese Cuisine is a community favorite among Santa Clara residents. This cozy spot boasts a low-key ambiance. If you visit on a random weekday evening, you'll find a lively environment full of loyal patrons—a true testament to the deliciousness of the food.

Here, you can enjoy classic Japanese dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and various noodle and rice dishes. Each dish is beautifully plated and bursting with flavor.

Rantei offers a wide array of delicious options, but if you're looking to sample their signature offerings, the Chirashi Don Combination and Kaisen Don are essential choices. If you’re up for an adventure, try the Omakase Sushi (Japanese for 'I’ll leave it up to you'), where you will be offered an assortment of the chef’s selection of specialty fish. The Omakase dining experience allows the chef to showcase seasonal and specialty ingredients, presenting their skills and creativity. Rantei Japanese Cuisine is a Santa Clara staple and should be on your list of places to check out.

Address: 1271 Franklin Mall, Santa Clara, CA 95050

Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Rantei Japanese Cuisine to get a sneak peek of what you can expect. 
a close up of food

2. Puranpoli

We haven’t forgotten our vegetarians; this next spot is especially for you! Puranpoli is an authentic vegetarian Indian restaurant that specializes in Maharashtrian cuisine. The ambiance is delightfully unassuming and casual, yet the restaurant offers top-notch service and delicious food. Don't let the relaxed setting fool you—prepare to be impressed!

Here, you can savor classic dishes like Vada Pav, Misal Pav, Sabudana Vada, Palak Paneer, Kadai Paneer, and Sukhi Batata Bhaji, among others. These dishes are expertly seasoned, showcasing the chefs' mastery of an abundance of spices.

Address: 3074B Scott Blvd Santa Clara, CA 95054

The Discover Santa Clara team visited Puranpoli recently, check out this Instagram Reel to check out the experience for yourself. 
a tray of food on a table

3. Seorai Korean BBQ 

Are you searching for the perfect place to gather with friends? Look no further than Seorai Korean BBQ, nestled in the heart of Santa Clara's Koreatown. Korean BBQ is best enjoyed surrounded by friends and family, making Seorai the ideal destination for a memorable group dining experience.

At Seorai, you can indulge in beloved dishes like the Seafood Pancake, Corn Cheese, and a variety of soups and noodle dishes. Yet, the true star of the show is their selection of classic KBBQ meats—brisket, galbi, pork belly, and more, each expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection. You can choose to order a la carte or opt for one of their specially curated BBQ Combos. Whether you're a Korean BBQ aficionado or a curious newcomer, Seorai promises an authentic and delightful culinary adventure.

Address: 3044 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95051

The Discover Santa Clara team visited Seorai Korean BBQ check out this Instagram Reel to check out the experience for yourself. 
meat on a grill with flames

4. Dumpling Capital

Dumpling Capital is another neighborhood gem in Santa Clara that should be on your radar. This spot is an authentic Chinese restaurant specializing in Shanghainese cuisine. If the name "Dumpling Capital" leaves you guessing, here's a hint: you should definitely try their specialty—dumplings! 

There are plenty of options to choose from, including Xiao Long Bao (Shanghai Soup Dumpling), Pork & Shrimp Siu Mai, and Shanghai Pan Fried Soup Dumplings—just a few of the classic dishes to get you started. You can also explore other fan favorites like Salt & Pepper Fish, Chow Mein, Fried Rice, and Green Onion Pancake to round out your dining experience.

Fun fact: Dumplings represent wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture and are often made (and eaten) with family and friends during Chinese New Year as a group activity. However, you can enjoy them year-round because they are absolutely delicious, and Dumpling Capital in Santa Clara is one of the best places to savor some amazing Chinese dumplings.

Address: 5075 Stevens Creek Blvd Ste 10 Santa Clara, CA 95051

Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Dumpling Capital to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.
a collage of food on a table

5. Sulbing Café 

Finally, do you have a sweet tooth? We've saved dessert for last: you've got to try Sulbing Café. Dive into the delightful world of Bingsu, a milk-based shaved ice Korean dessert. Depending on your chosen flavor, it can include a variety of different toppings.

Sulbing Café offers a wide array of amazing flavors, including Mango, Strawberry, and Green Tea. During our visit, we indulged in the Tiramisu Sulbing, which features a slice of tiramisu on top of the shaved ice, accompanied by a cup of espresso to pour over the Bingsu, enhancing its flavors beautifully.

Located in the same shopping plaza as Seorai Korean BBQ, Sulbing Café is the ideal place to finish off a delicious meal. After enjoying a hearty Korean BBQ, consider saving some room for dessert and trying out Sulbing Café. You won’t be disappointed!

Address: 3050 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95051

Check out this Instagram Reel we created about Sulbing Cafe to get a sneak peek of what you can expect.

a collage of different desserts


Honorable mention: Jiaren Cafe

Jiaren Cafe is an amazing AAPI and women-owned coffeeshop in Santa Clara. We have written a blog post about this spot that you should check out here. (Discover Santa Clara has also made an Instagram Reel about Jiaren Cafe.)

Address: 1171 Homestead Rd #140b, Santa Clara, CA 95050

All these spots mentioned are amazing and we've only scratched the surface of what Santa Clara has to offer. We encourage you to explore other AAPI-owned businesses along El Camino Real and beyond. Check out our Instagram @DiscoverSantaClara to stay in the know about the latest and greatest places in Santa Clara. 

Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by supporting these fantastic local eateries and many others and experiencing the diverse flavors of Asia right here in Santa Clara.