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 the much-loved community leader 🍊Catherine Walker (Orange Girl).