Conferences can be a great way to learn new things, network with other professionals, and stay up-to-date on industry trends. But if you're not careful, they can also be a waste of time and money.
In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find the time to learn new things. But conferences offer a unique opportunity to learn from experts in your field and get re-energized about your passion. You can also network with other professionals and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your industry.
As a big advocate of professional development and continuing education to keep you informed about trending topics and your area of expertise, I spend a lot of time attending and planning conferences. But not all conferences are created equal. Some conferences are more valuable than others. Without making the most of the experience, it could be an expensive few days. So how do you choose the right conference for you?
Here are some tips on how to make your conferences a success:
Plan ahead. The best way to ensure that your conference is a success is to plan ahead. Start by setting clear goals for the conference. What do you hope to achieve by attending? Once you know your goals, you can start planning your agenda and choosing the right conference for you.
Choose the right conference. There are many different conferences out there, so it's important to choose one that's right for you. Consider the topics that you're interested in, the speakers that will be there, and the location of the conference.
Do your research. Once you've chosen a conference, it's important to do your research. Read the conference website, read reviews of the conference, and talk to people who have attended in the past. This will help you get a better idea of what to expect and make sure that the conference is a good fit for you.
Prepare for the conference. Once you've registered for the conference, it's time to start preparing. Make sure you have all the information you need, such as the agenda, the schedule of events, and the location of the conference. You should also pack everything you need, such as your laptop, your notebook, and your business cards.
Network with other attendees. One of the best things about conferences is the opportunity to network with other professionals. Make an effort to introduce yourself to people and learn about their businesses. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities might come your way.
Attend the sessions. Of course, you're also there to learn! Attend the sessions that are most relevant to your interests and take notes. You can also ask questions during the sessions or meet with the speakers afterward.
Take advantage of social events. Conferences often have social events, such as receptions and dinners. These are great opportunities to relax and socialize with other attendees. You might even make some new friends!
Follow up after the conference. After the conference, be sure to follow up with the people you met. Send them a thank-you note and let them know that you enjoyed talking to them. You can also stay in touch with them on social media.
“Pro tip: send yourself a note via Future Me to remind yourself what you have learned and who you have met and need to follow up with after the event!”
Staying in touch with people I have met while attending conferences has proven to be an excellent business development opportunity. I stay top of mind with those in my network and they tend to trust me because we share the same value in accessing ongoing professional development.