While I was working on some new material for my Star Achievement Series® training program for executive assistants and administrative assistants, I came across something I wrote years ago. It was an extra handout I used to give participants when I was teaching persuasion skills in class. I want to share the ideas with you. These ideas might come in handy in persuading your leader to send you to a conference or any training program.
Joan Burge
How to Get the Most Out of Your Upcoming Administrative Conference
I just attended the ATD International Conference and Expo in San Diego to further my education. My head was swarming after reading through what seemed like a never-ending website, each page loaded with tons of information. This is a training-industry conference and is one of the big ones. This is the second time I attended this particular training industry event which is mostly focused on learning technologies and leadership. But it’s not that simple. It is a massive arena.
I wanted to plan which sessions I was going to attend. Quite honestly, I felt more confused than ever. On the first day alone, there were 70 sessions to choose from. Yikes, I only had 7 hours at the conference including lunch, exhibit halls, and breaks. How am I supposed to choose? The second day of the conference offers 65 sessions. Really? How can anyone person make a decision as to which sessions are the best?
How to Choose the Right Administrative Conference to Attend
Since there are so many administrative conferences being offered I would like to walk you through a series of questions to ask yourself when considering your options.
A conference should feed your brain and soul!
1. Start with the end in mind. What is your goal or goals for going to a conference?
- Education wise? What skills do you need to grow? What new skills do you need to learn/develop? The problem with this is sometimes we don’t know what we need to develop. It’s called our blind spot.
- To network and meet new people?
- Learn best practices from peers?
- Learn best practices from subject matter experts?
- What is the value of the program? In other words, what are you getting for your money? Any extra events such as a welcome dinner?
Networking at Administrative Conference Receptions
Do you dread going to the welcome reception at a conference? Or the opening night get together? A lot of people do, especially if they attend the conference alone or are a first-timer. However, going to the first night’s event when attending an administrative conference is a great way to start meeting the people with whom you will spend the next 3 or 4 days. It’s also a great opportunity to meet the associates at the company hosting the conference.
Persuading Your Manager
Getting to the “yes”
You know the scenario. You read about a great seminar, workshop, or conference for administrative office professionals. The topics are of interest to you and will help you in your job. You walk into your executive’s office to request his or her approval only to hear “no”. You walk out. End of story.