Staying sharp, social and sane: How to survive a multiday conference

Although many market professionals will have clear routines and rituals for surviving and thriving in their day-to-day working lives, heading out to a multiday conference present a very different working environment – an intense pocket of productivity where hundreds of peers and colleagues could be gathered.

Being able to muster and maintain energy and focus over a multiday conference can be quite the task – and certainly differs to a one-day event, where professionals may pop in and out as part of their usual working day.

Multiday conferences, such as the annual two-day Biba Conference, can be hugely beneficial in terms of knowledge sharing and networking – but there is a knack to them. Here are some top tips to ensure the survival of the fittest in Manchester this May.

Nifty networking

One useful hack is to change the wallpaper on your mobile phone to a screenshot of a quick response (QR) code that leads to your LinkedIn page. This acts as an instant – and sustainable – business card.

If you have a lull in activity and want to explore something that was not already in your diary, head to the Insurance Times stand (A50), grab the latest copy of the magazine and use it as a directory to explore new opportunities.

For example, attendees can use the conference specific content in the May 2026 edition for inspiration, seeking out the associated experts and news stories around the exhibition hall.

Remember to also use the buzz of the conference to your advantage – the energy of the atmosphere can help keep you focused and engaged.

Self-care

It is important to treat a multiday conference like an endurance event, not a sprint – so frame your time at Manchester Central like a marathon. Pace your energy, sleep properly beforehand and avoid overloading diary meetings on day one.

Although it is tempting to plan a meticulous schedule before arrival that will include client meetings and must-attend conference sessions, planning gaps for recovery and unexpected opportunities is a must.

The UK general insurance industry is built on relationships, so unplanned moments with peers can prove to be the best bonding moments. Likewise, how can you be the best version of yourself in these moments if you are burnt out or low on social battery?

Keeping free time in your agenda will allow you to rest or adapt, depending on which is needed more.

In the bag

In terms of a few essentials to pack in your overnight bag, a medical kit to combat losing your voice or morning headaches is always a good idea. This does not need to be extensive, but a few basics go a long way – for example, throat sweets, blister plasters, vitamins, mints and eye drops.

Comfortable shoes are also essential, as well as bottled water to stay hydrated.