I’m a big nerd for tweeting while I’m at a conference. Posting insights (real and humorous) opens heaps of offline conversations for me – and I really appreciate that others post their insights as well.  Not enough people take advantage of this amazing self-promoting opportunity.

Well, not anymore! It’s time for you to get socially connected and take advantage of this chance to get seen, virtually. Here are some reasons why you should to join the digital conversation this year:

1. The Conversation Has Already Begun

Do a search of “Kidscreen” or the official hashtag #kss14, you’ll start to get an idea of who is at the event, what they’re looking forward to seeing…

2.  The Fine Art of Snooping

You’re at the conference and had the flip a coin to choose which panel to attend. Or you now have a meeting scheduled when you really wanted to see a talk. That’s ok because you can follow the Kidscreen hashtag to see if anyone is posting insights from the panel you’re missing. You can even sneak in a tweeted question to those in attendance.

3. Don’t Just Lurk – Join

This is important – if you’re attending any of the panels, get on your phone and post what you find interesting on Twitter or Facebook. It’s like taking notes, but sharing them for everyone to see. It’s really that simple. It’s a way to get your name out there and potentially start conversations with likeminded individuals in the industry.

Don’t forget to use the kss14 hashtag to ensure other people can find your comments. If you notice someone’s beat you to the tweet or post, Retweet – it’s virtual hat tip etiquette.

Your posts don’t need to be just about the panels, either. Did you run into someone you haven’t seen in a while, or see a product that got you excited? Maybe you’re really pumped about the lunch options. Just post. Get out there and be a part of digital dialogue.

I should share two rules about joining the conversation. Please don’t spam the hashtag. While it is exciting to have an audience, no one appreciates repetitive tweets about your new show every hour on the hour. To be frank, if you flood the feed with tweets that don’t add anything to the conversation, you’ll look like a jerk who’s crashing a party. Instead, approach this opportunity like you’re at a party – start with the small talk, get a feel for the “room,” and then pitch if you feel it will be well received.

And speaking of parties, post cautiously at the amazing, post-conference events. While we’re all extremely professional at parties, sip from our white wine spritzers and head back to the hotel promptly by 8pm (cough), you may post something that isn’t in the spirit of the event. No one wants to be embarrassed – especially you.

4. The Conversation Doesn’t End on Feb 14

After we leave the conference floor, the hashtag will live on – and you can continue to chat and relay your insights via social media. Also, don’t forget to check out other social media – photos may be posted on Instagram, Pinterest, and some presenters might to post their Keynote/Powerpoint presentations, like the ones from a keynote presentation designer, on Slideshare (hint, hint) for easy reference.

Make this Kidscreen the year you take part in the online conversation. I look forward to reading everyone’s amazing insights and fun posts! I’m at Kidscreen briefly and then moderating a great panel about making sense of digital marketing http://ikidsevent.kidscreen.com/2014/sessions/66123/makingsensewithdigital/ at iKids on Feb 13.  Hope to see you there and online.

Lianne Stewart is a freelance digital and content strategist. She’ll probably retweet you at @liannestewart.