Back from NACE? 7 Moves to Make the Most of the Conference Experience

The National Association of Colleges and Employers Conference is always a whirlwind of insights, networking, and inspiration.

Whether it’s your first time attending or you’re a seasoned conference-goer, you likely left with a full notebook, a bursting email inbox, and a head swirling with new ideas. But what happens after the final session ends and the conference tote bag is tucked away? That’s when the real magic begins.

Here’s a helpful post-NACE to-do list to make sure all that learning turns into lasting impact for your students, your institution, and your own professional growth.

1. Take an Hour to Reflect Before Diving Back In

It’s tempting to jump straight into emails and everyday tasks, but block off an hour first. What ideas or sessions really stuck with you? What do you want to explore more deeply? Jot down three key takeaways and three action items you can realistically implement in the next 90 days. You don’t need to act on everything. Just start with what will matter most.

2. Follow Up While the Connections Are Fresh

You likely met career development professionals, scholars, presenters, and thought leaders who sparked meaningful conversations. Don’t let those connections fade! Send a quick LinkedIn message or email thanking them for the chat and offering to stay in touch. Even a short note can open the door for future collaboration.

3. Choose One “Quick Win” and Put It Into Action

Not everything from NACE has to go through a six-month implementation process. Did someone share a great tip? A new employer outreach strategy? A way to enhance your student engagement on Handshake or social media?

Pick one simple idea and test it out this week. Quick wins build momentum and show your team that conferences lead to action, not just inspiration.

4. Debrief with Your Team or Supervisor

Whether you attended solo or with colleagues, make time to share what you learned. This isn’t just good professional practice, it’s a great way to get buy-in for new ideas and show the value of your professional development.

5. Organize and Archive Your Materials

Before your notes get buried in a desk drawer or lost in your downloads folder, take 15 minutes to file everything in a shared drive, OneNote, or wherever you keep your go-to resources. Label it clearly (“NACE 2025 Notes & Tools”) so future-you can find it when you need that one great employer engagement slide next semester.

6. Capitalize on the Energy to Elevate Your Whole Team

There’s no better time to advocate for more professional development than right after a high-impact event like NACE. You’ve got fresh ideas, real-life examples, and proof of value. Use that momentum to request a professional development experience for the whole team.

7. Show Gratitude

If your institution funded your trip to NACE, send a quick thank-you note to your supervisor. A thoughtful message goes a long way and helps reinforce support for future professional development opportunities for you and your colleagues.

NACE Is a Starting Line, Not a Finish Line

What you do after the conference is what sets leaders apart. You invested time and energy into your professional growth, now don’t let it sit idle. Be strategic, stay connected, and act intentionally before the day's business takes over. Your students, your team, and your future self will thank you.