Effective local government leaders don’t solve complex challenges and advance their careers alone. They rely on colleagues, peers, mentors, and partners who can share lessons, offer new perspectives, and help them grow.

The right professional network does more than create career opportunities. It can make professionals stronger leaders and better equip them to serve their communities.

For Leann Watts-Williams, manager of neighborhood affairs for Tallahassee, Florida, connections have been central to her more than 20 years of public service.

“I’ve learned that local government is really about building relationships,” Watts-Williams said.

Network Through Shared Challenges

Every community is different, but local government professionals often face similar challenges involving budgeting, infrastructure, workforce development, economic opportunity, community engagement, and more.

Connecting with peers from other jurisdictions creates opportunities to discover tested solutions and approach familiar problems from a different angle. It also gives professionals a platform to share their own successes.

“You learn so much from people outside of your organization, and that goes both ways,” Watts-Williams said.

At her first ICMA Annual Conference last year, she shared innovative work underway in Tallahassee while learning how other communities were addressing their priorities. “You’re surrounded by people who understand the work you do and who are there for many of the same reasons that you are — to exchange ideas, build relationships, and learn about best practices.”

Keep Networking Simple and Authentic

The ICMA Annual Conference is the world’s premier gathering of local government professionals, making it a key event for expanding your network.

That said, a large conference can feel intimidating, particularly for someone who does not consider themselves a natural networker. Watts-Williams recommends focusing on a few authentic connections rather than trying to meet everyone. “My father would always tell me, ‘Just be yourself, and that’s all you have to do.’”

She encourages first-time attendees to introduce themselves to someone seated beside them, attend networking events, and ask others what they thought about a session.

As part of her conferencing strategy, Watts-Williams also took a selfie with each new person she met, helping her remember their name and organization when following up later. She says the goal is not simply to collect contacts; it's to meet people whose experiences can expand your thinking and help you navigate the next stage of your career.

Make the Connection Last

A conference introduction is only the beginning. The value of networking develops through continued communication, shared knowledge, and mutual support. “Certainly the key to that is follow-up,” Watts-Williams said. “Don’t wait until you need something to reach out to them again.”

Her advice is to send a message that references your conversation, congratulate someone on an accomplishment, share a useful resource, or ask new connections for their perspectives. These small interactions can turn a brief introduction into a lasting professional relationship.

For Watts-Williams, the knowledge gained at her first ICMA Annual Conference was valuable, but the relationships she built continue to make an impact long after the event.

Expand Your Network in Long Beach

ICMA’s 112th Annual Conference will bring local government professionals from around the world to Long Beach, California, October 17–21, 2026. Attendees can exchange ideas and build relationships through education sessions, networking events, affiliate gatherings, and informal conversations.

New members may also take advantage of ICMA’s Join, Go, and Save offer through October 21. Eligible new members receive 50% off first-year membership dues and access to the Annual Conference member registration rate.

Learn more about the ICMA Annual Conference or explore ICMA membership.