What Makes Networking at IIEX APAC Different?

IIEX APAC is intentionally smaller and more curated than many global conferences. The audience tends to be senior, regionally focused, and deeply invested in the future of insights across Asia Pacific.

That means:

• Conversations are more thoughtful than transactional

• Relationships matter more than quick introductions

• Cultural context plays a bigger role in how connections form
  
  

For first-timers, this is an advantage. You don’t have to shout to be heard. You just have to show up prepared.

 

Who Should I Be Trying to Meet at IIEX APAC?

Start by defining what “the right people” means for you.

Ask yourself:

• Am I looking for client-side insights leaders in APAC?

• Do I want to meet regional partners or local market experts?

• Am I exploring ResTech vendors expanding in Asia Pacific?

• Am I here to learn, build visibility, or open doors for future collaboration?
  
  

Having clarity before you arrive helps you prioritize conversations and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

 

How Do I Use the Agenda to Network More Strategically?

At IIEX APAC, the agenda is one of your best networking tools.

Sessions often signal who will be in the room and what they care about, especially those focused on:

• APAC consumer behavior and cultural nuance

• Regional innovation and transformation stories

• Market-specific case studies from Southeast Asia, ANZ, India, or Greater China
  
  

For first-timers, attending sessions aligned with your interests makes it easier to start conversations naturally. Referencing a speaker’s insight is a low-pressure way to connect without forcing a pitch.

 

What’s the Best Way to Start Conversations as a First-Timer?

You don’t need a rehearsed elevator pitch. At IIEX APAC, curiosity works better than polish.

Try:

• Asking what brought someone to the event

• Referencing a session you just attended

• Asking about the markets they work in across APAC
  
  

Listening well is often more impressive than talking fast, especially in a region where trust-building is essential.

 

Are There Cultural Considerations I Should Be Aware Of?

Yes and being mindful of them goes a long way.

While APAC is diverse, many markets place value on:

• Relationship-building before business

• Respectful, measured communication

• Long-term thinking rather than immediate outcomes
  
  

For first-timers, the goal isn’t to close deals on-site. It’s to open doors and establish credibility.

 

Where Does the Best Networking Actually Happen?

Some of the most valuable conversations at IIEX APAC happen outside formal sessions.

Keep an eye on:

• Coffee breaks and shared seating areas

• Informal conversations after sessions end

• Meals and in-between moments
  
  

Because the event is more intimate, these smaller moments often lead to deeper, more candid exchanges.

 

How Should I Introduce Myself in an APAC Context?

Avoid generic global descriptions when possible.

A strong first-timer introduction often includes:

• The markets you work in or want to grow into

• The types of challenges you’re exploring in APAC

• A genuine interest in learning from others in the region
  
  

This signals relevance and respect for local context, which matters in APAC networking.

 

How Do I Follow Up After IIEX APAC?

Follow-up is where many first-timers either stand out or disappear.

Effective follow-up at IIEX APAC:

• References a specific conversation or insight

• Keeps the tone warm and human

• Focuses on continuing the relationship, not rushing the ask
  
  

In many APAC markets, thoughtful follow-up matters more than speed.

 

What Should My Networking Goal Be as a First-Timer?

Think long-term.

The most successful first-time attendees approach IIEX APAC networking as:

• An opportunity to build regional understanding

• A chance to establish trust across markets

• A starting point for relationships that grow over time
  
  

Meet fewer people. Have better conversations. And let IIEX APAC do what it does best, connect the right minds across Asia Pacific.