From Conference Contact to Colleague by Elizabeth DiLuzio

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025

Hi again, AEA365 readers! Elizabeth DiLuzio here, back with another post inspired by the connections and creativity of #Eval25.

Conferences are rich with hallway introductions and “we should totally collaborate” moments. Yet, once the event ends, many of those sparks fizzle out. Here’s how to turn a promising contact into a genuine partnership, and maybe even a co-authored project.

Hot Tips

• Follow up fast. Reach out within a week while the conversation is still fresh. Mention something specific you discussed (“I keep thinking about your point on participatory data use”). Gratitude plus specificity goes a long way.
• Start small. Collaboration doesn’t have to begin with a full paper or evaluation project. Try a lower-stakes start by co-authoring a short AEA365 post or presenting together at a TIG meeting or local affiliate event.
• Clarify shared purpose early. If a bigger idea emerges, talk openly about what excites each of you and what you hope to learn. A 15-minute “goals and logistics” chat can prevent confusion later about roles, workload, or timelines.
• Use structure to stay on track. Set up a shared folder or Trello board to keep notes, drafts, and next steps visible. Even informal collaborations benefit from light structure. It protects momentum once everyday work resumes.
• Keep it relational, not transactional. Send updates, celebrate progress, and check in occasionally just to say hello. The strongest collaborations grow from genuine connection, not just shared outputs.

Every co-authored piece starts with a single follow-up email. If you meet someone at #Eval25 whose ideas resonated, reach out today. You might just begin your next great collaboration.

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