The New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference is back in Atlantic City, and once again it’s bringing thousands of local officials, administrators, professionals, and community leaders together for one of the largest municipal gatherings in the country.
For anyone active in and around local government, the League Conference is more than just an annual event—it’s where ideas become action, where shared challenges turn into collaborative solutions, and where meaningful conversations help shape the future of communities across New Jersey.
At Lenox Consulting and Oasis Media, we’re especially looking forward to connecting with old friends and meeting new ones as we continue our work helping towns, counties, agencies, and public-serving organizations communicate more effectively with the residents they serve. Through a storytelling-driven approach—one that highlights real people, real impact, and real community outcomes—we help local leaders build trust, strengthen engagement, and inform the public in ways that truly resonate.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned League veteran, here are some tips to help you make the most of your Atlantic City experience:
1. Start Strong
Breakfast meetings, early sessions, and first conversations set the tone for the day. Fuel up and get ready—because the League Conference moves fast, and opportunities to connect appear around every corner.
2. Do Your Homework
With hundreds of exhibitors, dozens of workshops, and countless social events, it pays to be strategic. Identify key people you’d like to meet—municipal officials, state agency partners, service providers—and think through the best ways to start a meaningful conversation.
3. Perfect Your Pitch
Whether you’re talking in a hallway, at a reception, or during an impromptu Uber ride between stops, be ready to quickly articulate who you are, what you do, and how you support local government. The League is full of brief but powerful touchpoints—make yours count.
4. Remember: Not Every Conversation Is About the Sale
Local government runs on relationships. Some of the most valuable interactions at the League Conference are simply the first step toward long-term partnerships or shared understanding. Approach each conversation with curiosity, not urgency.
5. Attend the Receptions & After-Hours Events
The receptions hosted throughout the week provide the ideal environment to deepen conversations and meet leaders you may not encounter on the exhibit floor. These gatherings help turn introductions into real connections.
6. Respect Space & Movement
Every turn you make will likely take you into another crowd. Be mindful of the flow, be aware of others’ space, and practice good networking etiquette. And if you need a mint — come find us! We always travel prepared.
7. Professionalism Wins the Week
The League is equal parts networking, learning, and relationship-building. Bring business cards, pace yourself, and maintain a professional presence throughout. First impressions matter—and at the League, they last.
8. Follow Up Quickly
Once the conference ends, the real work starts. Reach back out to the people you met, continue the conversation, and explore how you can help one another. A quick follow-up email or LinkedIn message sets the stage for ongoing dialogue.
