Whether in person or online, conferences are an investment. As you plan for professional development opportunities in the new year, make sure you're using your time and money wisely.

According to two experts, Dr. Kortni Alston, a workplace wellness coach, and Patrice Williams Lindo, CEO of Career Nomad, there are three things you can do to make the most of your next conference:

1. Make an effort to meet new people. One of the main benefits of any conference is the opportunity to network with others in your field. Take a moment to scan the list of attendees to identify who you want to meet and who would be a good connection to have. Lindo explains that she adopts a mindset that she has something in common with everyone in attendance, which allows for an easy way to connect with others and network.
2. Schedule your time strategically. There’s a lot to take in at a conference so plan out your time for maximum effectiveness, which also includes scheduling down time. Make sure to be clear on your goals— whether it be networking or learning something new—when choosing where and how to spend your time.
3. Nurture current relationships. If you’ve been in the field for a while or have attended this conference before, you’ll probably see some people you’ve met before. Use this opportunity as a way to reconnect and catch up, and strengthen your network.

Read more on CNBC’s Make It website: Do these 3 things to make the most of your next work conference, career experts say.