At the many large conferences I attend, I often notice solo and first-time attendees looking overwhelmed. I believe what they’re experiencing in those moments is a sudden and unexpected sense of loneliness.

There’s a platform agnostic movement in the Accounting industry, encouraging solo, first time attendees, or even introverts, to wear an orange bracelet  to help signal they’re open to meeting people and networking.

The bracelet can be anything you want it to be: a ribbon, beads, silicone rubber, just something that is both subtle and easy to spot.

If you are at a conference, notice someone wearing an orange bracelet, here are some conversation starters:

🧡“I’m [Name] from [Place/Company]…
🧡“What’s been your favourite session so far?”
🧡“I’m trying to figure out which session to go to next – what are you planning to see?”
🧡“Do you have a particular session or speaker you are planning to attend?”
🧡“Have you spoken to any interesting vendors worth checking out?”

I want to stress this is platform agnostic – we are a global accounting community of humans.

This microconnection is a small act of kindness can make someone feel welcome, give them a sense of belongingness and help them enjoy their conference experience.

This is inspired by much loved community leader