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Sitting at a coffee shop in Boston before Inbound 2013, I can't help but think about why marketers are drawn to social summits across the country. Dressing up and listening to speakers all day may not sound glamorous, yet most people love attending these events. I decided to compile some obvious, and more subtle, reasons why everyone should try attending a social conference at least once regardless of your position in your company. Enjoy!
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1. Networking
The most obvious reason for any attendee...the networking opportunities at social summits are phenomenal. Being surrounded by thought leaders, industry professionals, and other individuals with your job title...there is no greater place to swap ideas and gain leads. Be sure to connect with leads on LinkedIn and find ways to stay in touch and nurture the relationship.
Before you go:
Prepare business cards and make sure all of your social profiles are up to date. Be aware that the next person you meet could be the CEO of a large company, or an intern, so give everyone the benefit of the doubt!
2. Thought Leadership
While networking may be priority for some, the actual content being delivered at summits is usually groundbreaking and will define the future of the industry. Attending keynotes and sessions will unveil the secrets of successful companies and leave you with direct material to take home and share.
Before you go:
Though awesome and enlightening, a full day of information can take a toll on your energy levels. Get a full nights sleep and utilize any free coffee made available to make it through the end of the day! Take notes and compile what you have learned each day.
3. Practice the pitch
You may be an expert at your job, but how well can you pitch the company to a stranger? Everyone in a company needs at least some sales experience. At a marketing conference, you will become an expert at quickly and concisely explaining what your company offers and your own role within it. Need help? Look up the best way to construct an elevator pitch that sells.
Before you go:
Start by practicing an elevator pitch with fellow coworkers and really be able to be passionate with your delivery. Be sure to include a "why" you do what you do instead of a pure "this is what we do" speech. A perfect pitch sells you, the company, and intrigues your listener to ask more questions!
4. Escape the office and build relationships
Once in awhile you need to just get out. Getting away from the office can be a great mental break and a chance to bound with coworkers outside of the daily grind. You may even learn a thing or two about your co-workers which will grow your future relationships within the company.
Before you go:
Go in with an open mind and be willing to open up some personal aspects of your life. Spending more time with coworkers can be a treat, but can also become a drag if you have the wrong attitude. Conduct some of your own research before the trip so you won't run out of talking points.
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5. Experience a new city
I may be partial due to my love for travel, but being able to hangout in a new city for a few days makes the trip worth it. Our brains thrive and grow when we experience new sights, paths, and people. A new city will open your mind and most conferences usually take place in areas such as Boston and New York which have endless activities.
Before you go:
Research cool things to see and do in the city and consider arriving a day early to take advantage of these opportunities. Familiarize yourself with local landmarks and how your own transportation will be handled. In short..."know before you go" and you will have a more pleasant experience.
Conferences are a great way to expand your personal network and experience new areas. As long as you are prepared, you are bound to have a great time! Have any of your own tips or horror stories from a conference? Feel free to share!
Posted originally on Undergrad Tech
