Jan 5th, 2009

Q&A with Ying Huang

What was the first conference you attended?

I don’t remember exactly but it was pharmaceutical-related. Maybe it was China-Pharm 2007.

I did some research regarding the conference organizers and background. It all depends on what kind of conference you attend. If you know the attendee list and there is someone you are interested in doing an interview with, then you need to research their background and get recent news updates as well.  But most of time, you don’t need to prepare too much because of all your knowledge about the industry and your experience — unless there are specific things or hot topics you want to cover.

Also, you need to get your notebook and digital recorder ready, check the batteries, and dress up.

I met someone at the conference whom I talked on the phone with before but didn’t have chance to meet yet. They seemed nicer in person and more interested in talking  than on the phone.

First of all, there is the transportation. Some conferences are in a remote area and we are not allowed to take taxis and we don’t have company cars like other reporters, so it can take a very long time to go there by bus or tube.

Secondly, it can be hard to approach people who you want to talk with and get their business cards. Some people from big multinational companies didn’t like giving cards to reporters because they are not allowed to talk with reporters without their PR department’s permission.

I paid for my own taxis so I would get there in time.

Also, I try to meet and talk with people at a management level, and make friends with other attendees who might introduce you to their bosses and might help you set up an interview with the company.

1. Be aggressive. Try to get a seat in the first row. It is easier to get clear conference recordings and easier to talk with speakers.
2. Dress in formal clothes.
3. Try to talk with the people who sit next to you. Maybe you can get extra information.
4. Catch up on the latest news regarding the industry you cover. It helps you understand the discussion and gives you ideas about questions to ask at the conference.
5. You don’t need to stay at the conference until the end. Get the most important parts and most relevant quotes and then move on to next conference session. If there is an exhibition as well, then take a look. It helps you to collect business cards and relevant product information and booklets.

Note from editor: Our office is, in fact, too small to have a company car. But our business manager says that she can reimburse taxi fares with prior manager approval.