PTT: Attending a Company Conference

Professional Tip Tuesday

The essentials.

Today I am attending my first real business outing. My company has a HUGE annual conference that includes associates, leadership, and business partners. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the industry and the opportunities I have within my company.

A conference can be so much more than just a chance to get away from your desk and your day-to-day duties (Although, that's a great plus too!).

This Professional Tip Tuesday is how to make the most of this awesome experience! 





Here are 4 big ways to take advantage of a work related conference.
1. GO! 
- Seems obvious doesn't it? But it's easy to get caught up in your work and decide not to attend. This could be a major advantage for career development and future promotions. If your company is hosting or sending you to a conference - it will be in your best interest to check it out!

2. Pick the agenda. 
- If there are break out sessions - pick the ones that are most relevant to you! That doesn't always mean the sessions that apply to your current job. Pick the courses that interest you and what you'd like to do with your career.


3. Take it in. 
- Write down all you can. The name and contact info of the speakers, the main points of the sessions, and the resources they cite to learn more. Especially if you will be at the conference all day long, it will be hard to remember all that you hear. All of these very important people aren't getting together for nothin'. Whatever you are listening to could be the next big thing!

4. Network. 
- Take advantage of breaks throughout the day and lunchtime conversations. You never know who you are sitting next to or how they can help you in the future. Bring business cards and take some notes on the people you meet. Reach out to them after it's over (the same way you would at a Career Fair). They can be great resources on your next project or maybe even during a future career move!

We've all probably attended conferences. Whether it's for an organization or a job, they can be one of the best ways to connect to people that will help you with your career. How do you make the most of conferences? Comment below!