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Yes, that is a great opportunity these days. Have also seen people using Instagram for this. – Jeff
ReplyThe last conference I went to I wish I would have done some Facebook Live interviews from the floor.
ReplyGood tip, Jon – Plenty of research to suggest that a brief nap, particularly post learning, can help substantially with consolidating memory (in addition to keeping you sharp). Even a brief rest can have a significant impact, as highlighted here: https://www.missiontolearn.com/remember-what-you-hear/.
Jeff
ReplyThese are fantastic. I love attending conferences, and often find that I lose the enthusiasm and learning gained as soon as I get back to the grind.
One thing I’d add – divide and conquer. If you are attending with a colleague, attend separate sessions (unless there’s one you’re both dying to attend) and debrief afterwards. This helps you articulate what you’ve learned (by sharing) and increase your knowledge (by listening). Even if you’re attending alone, there are great chances for informal sharing as you network.
ReplyGreat takeaways and love the “paper” notes. Will add reviewing them while at the conference. I, often, pull my notes out after the event when I provide an overview of the event with the team. One thing I added to combat the wrong items is to include a 30-45 minute workout either outside, in the hotel gym, or in my room prior to starting the day. Great way to get your body and mind ready for learning. Loved #9 – and added that to my learning basket for the future. Best.
ReplyCertainly – you are free to suggest whatever you like. I will have a look. Stephen always has good things to say. – Jeff
ReplyMay I suggest that you also review Stephen Downes’ article “How to Get the Most Out of a Conference”, https://halfanhour.blogspot.ca/2011/11/how-to-get-most-out-of-conference.html
ReplyJeff there are some fantastic tips here. The one about taking notes is really important. I always think I can remember stuff, but having the notes for after a conference is always key.
Also I like your idea of conducting interviews. It’s a great ‘in’ to start talking to someone and it will give you some quality content that you could give to that person or put up on your own website later.
Reply[…] Jeff Cobb shares 10 tips to get the most out of a conference. One of our fave tips? Review the education sessions ahead of time. In order to really optimize […]
ReplyJeff – That’s an important one. I do find that conferences can be kind of cliquish. You have to make the effort to break out.
Jody – Having been on the vendor side of the line in the past, I definitely know what a tug of war it an be! I have a deep appreciation for planners who manage to really incorporate the trade show elements into their conferences well.
Adrienne – I’ve always found #7 a lot of fun. I don’t think I did it at ASAE last year, so looking forward to getting back in the saddle.
Many thanks to each of you for sharing your thoughts! – Jeff
ReplyGreat post. Love #7 as I am trying to force myself to do the same as a way to
1) Get outside of myself and actually experience the conference
2) Find a fun way to meet new people that isn’t too intense
3) Learn more about the Association Industry outside of my little world
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and solidifying that I’m thinking along the right lines.
See you in Dallas!
ReplyI think the trade shows are a great chance to talk to vendors and suppliers and often overlooked. Having them all in one place is great. Usually events are so packed with content that people don’t get the chance to see the vendors.
Also networking is so important and the relationships you build and solidify are really a stepping stone to advancement.
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