Conquer Conferences Like a Pro: Ten Tips for an Effective Experience

With large events such as  AMCIS, COBIS and IDPE there is always the pressure of balancing our professional responsibilities with the opportunity to attend these enriching gatherings. But fear not! I've got some top tips to ensure you make the most out of your conference experience, all while keeping your spark intact!

1.     Plan With Purpose: Study the conference programme in advance and plan your sessions. It is worth making some time throughout the day to check & respond to your work emails so you are not overwhelmed at the end of the day. Check your travel route, dress code and pack those business cards, phone charges and other key travel items. Let colleagues know where you are and write an appropriate out-of-office, so people don’t expect an immediate reply.
 

2.     Maintain Your Routine: If exercise or meditation is your thing, pack your gear! Sneak in a workout or session before dinner or breakfast to keep your energy levels up and your routine intact.
 

3.     Take Notes Like A Pro: Equip yourself with a trusty notepad or digital device to jot down key insights and ideas from each session. Better yet, type your notes as you go to easily share them with your SLT & team back at the office. Sharing knowledge show professionalism and benefits everyone.
 

4.     Craft Your To-Do/Wish List: Dedicate a page in your notes to outline actionable items and aspirations inspired by the conference. This list will become your roadmap for future planning and innovation.

5.     Engage with Suppliers: Don't overlook the valuable opportunity to connect with suppliers during breaks. They're there to help your school shine, so ask questions, seek updates, and who knows? You might even snag some cool swag or win a competition! Check them out in advance and book some time to meet with those of interest, as they can get busy and you may miss out on an opportunity.
 

6.     Network with Intent: Network like a pro by splitting up with a colleague to cover more ground. Strike up conversations with fellow attendees during sessions and meals to exchange insights and experiences. Remember to connect on LinkedIn afterward to nurture those new connections.

7.     Balance Enjoyment and Moderation: While it's tempting to indulge in the dinner and drinks, remember to pace yourself. A clear head ensures you're ready to absorb knowledge and insights the next day.

8.     Stay Until the End: Show appreciation for the hard work of conference organisers and speakers by staying until the final session. Often, the best gems of wisdom are shared in those closing moments. And don't forget to provide constructive feedback - it's invaluable for improvement.
 

9.     Post-Conference Follow-Up: Schedule a diary entry a month post conference to revisit your notes and to-do list. Don't let valuable insights fade away - put them into action to make the most of your investment.

10. Embrace Continuous Learning: The best tip of all is to always remain curious and open to learning. Conferences are just one avenue for growth - seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge year-round and gain support as needed.

If it all becomes too overwhelming, get in touch and I can help you navigate your current challenges to create a successful marketing approach.