I remember the first conference I attended after starting my coaching business. Upon returning home, my husband asked how it went, to which I replied, “Fine – though it wasn’t quite what I expected.”
“What were you expecting?” he asked.
“I don’t know…just not that!”
As the words left my mouth, I knew I had done little to prepare myself to be a flourishing attendee, and I vowed to take a more proactive, purposeful approach to my own experience when at conferences and classes. Since conferences typically require money, time, childcare coordination, work arrangements, and a whole host of other preparations, we do ourselves a disservice when we don’t give forethought to our own desired outcomes.
Since that first event, I’ve become much better at preparing myself for an outstanding experience – regardless of how well-planned the event is (or isn’t), how helpful the content is (or isn’t), how moved I am (or not) by the speakers. How about you?
With conference season approaching, consider adopting one or more of these ideas to make the most of it:
1. Prepare For Your Return.
What? Before you even go? Yes. One of the struggles with personal / professional development (and a big reason I went into coaching) is that we’re good at getting inspired and motivated, but not so good on the follow-through. Prepare your environment now for a successful return. Cleaning up your office and blocking time on your calendar to activate your biggest learnings are two great starting points.
2. Define “Success.”
Don’t make the mistake I did at that first conference or make your experience wholly dependent on things outside your control. What will make it worthwhile? If you leave with five new ideas? Several new connections? A selfie with the keynote speaker? Decide, then act accordingly.
3. Request An Attendee List.
The event may offer a prime opportunity for you to reconnect with old colleagues, meet new like-minded people, or introduce yourself to someone you’ve long wanted to meet. If the organizers cannot send you the attendee list, check for an event Facebook page, sponsor listing, or other easily-accessible online resources.
4. Choose Your Mindset.
When I conduct trainings in organizations, I can typically tell with ease the difference between those attending of their own volition and those for whom attendance is mandatory. Decide to be open, curious, willing to learn. You’ll find your experience much more valuable, not to mention a lot more fun!
5. Bring A Highlighter.
A speaking colleague of mine was recently floored to discover several less-than-stellar ratings on her evaluation forms. When she reviewed the reasons, all were related to the room temperature – nothing to do with her speaking content or quality. Bring a sweater. Pack a water bottle and protein bar. Put a pen and notepad in your bag, and a highlighter so you can mark your most valuable takeaways and next actions. Act like a scout and be prepared.
Like in nearly all aspects of work and life, your odds for success increase dramatically when you act with intention, purpose, and forethought. Here’s to your best-ever conference season!
Want even more tips for making the most of your experience? Enroll for Spark – you’ll get a full list before attending this life-changing retreat on Nov 3. Click here for details!