We all think the reason we should attend conferences is to enhance our learning, along with a little bit of networking thrown in. I agree this is a great reason, but perhaps we can be more strategic about it. Perhaps we could attend conferences solely for the networking opportunities they offer?
On the weekend I saw mums from all over Australia converge on the AusMumpreneurs Conference in Sydney. They were there to learn, and learn they did, but the real magic was in the relationships being formed; the matchmaking of individuals who should know each other and the business being done in the corridor. And unless you are there, you don’t experience it.
I was lucky enough to speak at the event about “The World is Your Coffice – How to Run Your Business From Anywhere,” and loved the interaction with my audience. Although I was speaking, I didn’t just speak and run; I enjoyed the conference, got some great a ha’s myself, formed new relationships and strengthened others. I got to hang out with some of my “online” buddies and, in particular, friendships formed from the last conference. Strategically, I made some great contacts. But if I had spoken and run that may not have occurred.
When I saw all of the fabulous mumpreneurs at the awards dinner on the last night of the conference, I was a little sad. Quite a lot of them had not attended the conference, just the Awards dinner. Sure, we all have commitments, but I wonder if they really knew what they were missing out on? It’s about so much more than the content of the conference. You never know who you might sit next to, or meet over refreshments. Those of us who have attended the conference over the years know a lot of the regulars. And we’re more than happy to introduce people where we see it’s beneficial to both parties.
So what should you consider when determining to attend a conference or not, regardless of content:
- Who can I meet? Think about who will be attending.
- Will my own target audience be attending? If yes, perfect opportunity to meet prospects. If no, could the possible connections (your industry or not) be beneficial?
- Do I wish to meet one of the speakers? This is quite doable, and more often than not they are quite happy to talk to you. They’re a person too.
- Attend the “social” aspects of events as it allows for deeper connections when the conversation time is usually a lot longer.
And if you’re thinking that conferences don’t happen near you, you’re wrong. It’s just a matter of finding about them. Do searches online, ask people and see what others in your network are talking about.
What conference will you be attending next? Are there others you should be attending for strategic reasons? Let me know in the comments below if there are some I should be attending!
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