How to get the most out of your next conference

Many of us are fortunate to attend conferences hosted by CUNA and other organizations. To get the most out of the event you attend, follow these strategies to manage your time, attention and energy.

Network in advance – before you attend the event review the attendee list, set up appointments with people in advance, follow conversations  (and hash tags) on social media – get to know other members before the event officially starts.

Pack smart – I am the first to pack many stilettos and make sure I wear every pair, but know you will be walking long hallways, standing around for many hours and smart footwear is a must (ladies try wedges, they look cute and are really comfy).

Pack light – choose a neutral color palette for basic pieces and pop with accessories to minimize the number of outfits you need to take.  If you want brilliant packing tips for your conference read this great advice from Megan Kristel at Kristel Closets.

Hydrate regularly – Air conditioning, late nights, and bad food choices mean it’s more important to drink even more water than you think you need. Carry a water bottle and fill it up constantly.

Review agendas – review agenda and speakers in advance, know which sessions and social events you want to attend, what you can skip and determine what you will pack.

Pay attention – please be kind to everyone, and give them your attention. Tip well, take care of hotel staff and be generous with everyone you meet.

Save energy – the first day of the conference is usually exciting and everyone is full of energy and by day three people are worn out from late nights, maybe a little more socializing than usual and sitting in artificial lighting. Manage your energy and know when you can skip sessions, take a nap or just get outside in the fresh air.

Work out daily – yep even if you have to get up early, don’t compromise your workout. Even though you think you will be too tired, it is so worth staying committed even if a walk outside is all you can manage or a walk on the hotel treadmill. Take care of yourself.

Say no – confidently say no if you don’t want to attend a session or you are in a session that doesn’t work for you, leave it. If you don’t want to go to an event, and want to recover in our room, do that. Be conscious of what you say yes to and reserve your energy when possible.

Have fun – the conference or your Credit Union’s annual event is often the one time a year you get to see colleagues and have fun celebrating the accomplishments of those in your Credit Union and in our industry. Savor every moment and relax.

Schedule follow up – after the event write handwritten notes to those you met, connect on LinkedIn, follow people on Twitter and schedule follow up calls to continue to leverage the connections you made.

As a professional speaker I often attend conferences (as the keynote speaker and I also attend as a guest in my industry),  it’s always fun to watch people connecting with each other.

Attention is all about connection. Manage your energy and you will make your next conference a productive event.