The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ annual Food and Nutrition Convention and Exhibition (FNCE) is the largest nutrition conference, attended by 10,000 dietitians annually.

This several day nutrition conference consists of nutrition education courses and an exhibitor hall showcasing the hundreds of health companies, products and foods. Even more, there are several pre and post-conference sponsored events and networking opportunities. For dietitians, FNCE is a great opportunity for continuing education, to learn more about new technologies and products available and to network with other nutrition professionals. The connections you build at FNCE can help you to further grow your nutrition practice and elevate your career.

Healthie makes keeping these contacts easy. To set up a free Starter account with Healthie today, click here.

Due to the sheer size of this nutrition conference, FNCE can be overwhelming. By taking some advance steps, you can make the most of your experience this year.

To make the most of your time at FNCE, here are 3 things you can do now to be prepared:

1 . Set Your FNCE Goals

Like any large conference, FNCE can be overwhelming for both first-time attendees and seasoned conference vets.

Setting goals prior to your arrival in D.C. can lift your confidence and help you get the most out of the 3 days.

Here are some example goals you may want to set:

• Collect the maximum number of CEUs
• Attend a business-boosting workshop
• Learn about a new niche or area of expertise
• Network with brands at the Expo
• Meet online friends and colleagues in person

Take it even a step further and PLAN your nutrition conference schedule. Download the FNCE app or print out the program, make a list of contacts you want to speak with, and even set up several meetings prior to the conference to ensure you’re organized for success.

Healthie helps you utilize these new tips you have learned and implement them into your practice and your client relations. Click here to learn more about our free starter plan.

2. Give Your Business Cards a Boost

The networking opportunities at FNCE are endless, and one of the most attractive reasons for nutrition professionals to attend. You'll meet colleagues, interns, and brands, which is why it's essential to always have your business cards on you.

Be sure you have enough business cards to pack so you don’t miss out on an opportunity for collaboration.

If you’re designing business cards for the first time, be sure to check out our guide to ensure you include all vital info, such as your social media links.

3. Practice Your Elevator Pitch

Feel confident walking into this nutrition conference by having your elevator pitch down.

An elevator pitch is a 30-second description of you, your services and niche. You will meet brands, other dietitians, and a plethora of referral sources at FNCE, so practicing your pitch will make for perfect opportunities by the end of the conference.

Here's what to include in your elevator pitch:

• What you do
• Who you help (identify your ideal client)
• What's unique about your business
• What you want to happen next

Having an idea of possible collaborations with colleagues and brands will help boost your confidence a little bit more. Maintaining your network and facilitating partnerships is easy through our platform's free starter plan.