You can certainly do as some suggest and have a target list, which I have done before, but find to be very exhausting. I personally prefer all the casual connec

You can certainly do as some suggest and have a target list, which I have done before, but find to be very exhausting. I personally prefer all the casual connections. For example at SXSW this year I got more business cards from people that I shared rickshaw rides with then any other way. The same goes for cab rides or shuttle rides you share with people. You are stuck with each other for 5 minutes so just strike up a conversation. Yes its a little more random and less targeted but it is also more natural, so even if they don't need you they may pass your card to someone else who does because you weren't that guy. Also, if its a busy conference or one that essentially takes over a whole hotel or area like SXSW where pretty much everyone you pass by is at the conference, just hang out on a couch or bench in the hotel lobby. Tons of people will come by and ask if the seat is taken. Kindly let them know it is not and strike up a friendly conversation like you would in the cab or shuttle.