Are we there yet?
If you’re anything like me, you’ve been saying this for weeks about our upcoming trip to New York for the College Media Advisers spring national convention.
I’m quite a conference nerd. I love networking and learning from others who share my passions. There is something rejuvenating about spending a few days with others who are just as nerdy about your subject as you are. It’s like being around a whole group of people who speak your same kind of dork.
I attend every conference possible, including years of College Media Advisers conferences. As a result, I’ve learned a few things about what to do and what to avoid.
1. Bring snacks
If you’re doing the conference thing correctly, it means you’ll be pretty busy most of the day. You probably won’t have time to eat much until dinner. Vending machines are expensive and inconvenient. Pack yourself some granola bars and bottles of water so you can power through the day without passing out.
2. Stay off of your phone
There is perhaps no better way to look disinterested than chatting on your cell phone or texting every few minutes. It’s just rude. If you must take a phone call, go to your room to do so. The only exception to being on your phone is using social media to share what you’re learning with others. My advice is to do this from your iPad or computer. It seems more legitimate that way.
3. Wear your nametag
You’ll meet a ton of people, so it’s important for them to remember who you are and vice versa. This also helps you identify conference attendees for the big elevator pitch.
4. Bring business cards
I am the worst about forgetting to bring my business cards to conferences. This means I have to write down my name, number and/or email address for anyone who asks. It really hinders networking when you’re unprepared.
5. Dress for the job you want
You should “dress for the job you want, not the one you have.” I wear a suit all day and a professional dress in the evening during entire conferences. Remember that networking is a huge portion of the conference’s purpose. Dress up from arrival to departure (yes, even on the plane).
6. Attend sessions
You are at the conference to network and learn. Too many times people seem to go to conferences to drink or sight see. You can do those things on vacation. You should take full advantage of professional conferences by attending as many sessions as you can each day. If you wake up early and attend sessions, there is plenty of time for fun (aka: Disney World) in the late afternoon and evening.
7. Always have a pen and paper
It’s impossible to remember everything you learn at a conference. You’ll also generate a lot of great ideas while listening to speakers or talking with others. Be prepared to document your great ideas during the entire conference. I know it’s old school, but the best way to do this is to keep a pen and paper with you at all times.
8. Keep an idea file
Because you will get so many great ideas at conference, it’s important for you to have a way to organize them. Put them all in the same notebook or clip file. Make a plan for using them as soon as possible. Where do your new ideas fit into your current goals and objectives?
9. Gather swag
Everyone likes free stuff. Be sure to gather handouts, books, pens, notepads, etc. If you won’t use them, someone in your organization will.
Enjoy your time at conferences to embrace your inner nerd. Conferences are one of the few places where you can sit and debate or discuss the minutiae of your industry. Take advantage of being surrounded by literally the most intelligent people in your business. Learn from them while you can.
I’ll see you in New York! Be sure to say hello!
My sessions during CMA 13:
Managing Millennials – 12:30 p.m. Sunday
May I See You In My Office? – 2:30 p.m. Sunday
Watchin’ the Dogs – 11 a.m. Tuesday
EllCulp says
Google what the speakers tell you, while also using spell check.
profkrg says
@EllCulp You learned an important lesson. You didn’t think I’d remember!
EllCulp says
It was a large conference. You caught me. Lesson learned.
profkrg says
@EllCulp Yes, but I work at a university that focuses on student engagement and personal attention. I don’t forget 😉
Ok, you must get rid of the Twitter egg. It makes people think you’re a spammer. Listen to me this time!