While having an online presence is definitely important today, there’s still something about face-to-face connections that the Internet is lacking. That’s why attending conferences or professional development events can enhance your brand and awareness in a new way than social networking can.
In addition to meeting new people and growing your network, you can also:
- Listen to diverse speakers
- Gain knowledge or understanding of your field
- Discover new career opportunities and options
- Improve your current business
- Travel to different parts of the country (or world)
Maintaining your brand away from home
It can be nerve-wracking traveling across the country to attend a conference with hundreds or thousands of other people, but it’s important to remember the following to maintain your brand and get the most out of the experience:
Bring business cards. You never know who you will meet, so have your business cards with you at all times! Make sure all of your contact information is on there, including your e-mail address, Twitter handle, websites, and professional profiles. Another important thing to bring is a business card holder (or you can buy an app that stores business cards in your phone), so you don’t lose the ones you’re given.
Come prepared. Do your research on the conference and which parts you’re interested in attending. Also, check into the guest list (if it’s available) to see who will be there. And don’t forget to pack extra pens, paper, and a calendar/planner (if you aren’t using the one on your computer/phone).
“Meet” people ahead of time. If you see statuses or tweets about the conference you’re attending, engage those people in conversation and make a point to meet up with them.
Use spare time to connect with other attendees. Don’t just grab dinner in your room. Much of the networking at events happens after the speakers are finished. Put yourself out there and you’ll never know the amazing people you could meet.
Set goals for yourself. Instead of flying by the seat of your pants, create a list of goals you hope to achieve by the end of the conference. These could include finding new clients, partnership opportunities, ideas, etc.
