Maybe conferences are a little overwhelming for you? Here are some Conference Survival Skills or tips we found useful for those who feel this way. We are passing these along after finding them at Business Management Daily’s web site (link below). Please enjoy and let us know what you enjoy the most or what holds you back from attending conferences? What are YOUR Conference Survival Skills?
Tips On Surviving Professional Conferences
by ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONAL TODAY on JULY 23, 2013 9:00AM
Business people, networking, business conferences: Some people love them, but others find them stressful, intimidating and overwhelming. If you’re in the latter group, writer and Editor Sarah Todd has tips to help you out.
Accept awkward interactions. In large networking situations, it’s not unusual for people to walk away abruptly in the middle of a conversation. That can sting, but you shouldn’t take it personally. “Sometimes I’d try heading off a prospective ditching by being the first one to bounce,” Todd writes, “and I also tried wildly inviting more people I didn’t know to join the conversation in order to keep the pressure off me in one-on-one scenarios. All these options went … weirdly, but that was fine!”
Dress to impress. People are looking at you everywhere you go and paying particular attention to the area where your nametag is hanging. They want to know who you are and if they want to talk to you. It’s your job to make a good impression and not place anything inappropriate such as excessive cleavage right next to the name tag.
Prepare an elevator pitch in advance. Each time you meet someone new at a conference, they will want to know a little bit about you. This can be tough, but it helps if you prepare something to say. Just a little story about yourself, what you’ve done and what you’re doing is all you need.
Connect for coolness, not career climbing. You’ll be much happier and more comfortable if you just focus on connecting with people who seem cool instead of worrying about which of your fellow attendees can do the most to help your career. “Since people who I like and admire usually do things that I think are cool too, I don’t see how this approach could possibly hurt, professional development-wise,” Todd writes.
Take a break from time to time. It’s hard to be “on” nonstop for the entire duration of a conference— even a short one—so don’t be afraid to step out of the fray for a break every once in a while. You can step outside to text your friends, go get some coffee or just hang out away from the crowd. “Also, it turns out that sometimes when you’re just sitting by yourself, people will actually approach you,” Todd writes.
Don’t worry, everyone feels judged. You’re not alone in feeling like you’re being watched and judged. The truth is you are, but not as much as you fear. Besides, it doesn’t matter, so just relax.
— Adapted from “Conference Survival Skills,” Sarah Todd, The Billfold.
This information is proudly provided by Business Management Daily.com:http://www.businessmanagementdaily.com/35738/tips-on-surviving-professional-conferences
As an executive who hosts large-scale events, I stay on top of trends, best practices, and new perspectives. I’ve heard a lot recently about the debate on whether hosting conferences and events in the same location annually is beneficial. This
See how the sessions, networking opportunities, and experience of a conference can make a difference in your administrative career.
Discover the transformative power of collaboration for administrative assistants. Learn how it differs from teamwork and boosts productivity.
Produced By
The global leader in the development and presentation of sophisticated executive and administrative assistant training, coaching, and resources.
About
© OFFICE DYNAMICS INTERNATIONAL 2024
Check out our tips and get our ‘Getting Approval’ packet, featuring a comprehensive brochure with conference details and a ‘Request to Attend’ letter to help convince your superiors of the event’s value.
In today’s fast-paced business world, the role of administrative and executive assistants is more crucial than ever in driving innovation and positive change within organizations. However, a common pitfall is that many organizations dive headfirst into radical change without first understanding the heart of the people responsible for implementing it. This dynamic keynote, which includes mesmerizing entertainment elements, will shine a light on the transformative power of seemingly insignificant actions, inspiring you to take the first step towards positioning yourself as a key catalyst to SPARK success.
In this session, you will…
Priscilla Pfeiffer, a seasoned professional, boasts a two-decade career in entertainment and business. Her unique show business background allows her to craft mesmerizing performances, leaving enduring memories. Focused on delivering resonant and empowering messages that inspire audiences to make an impact in the world, she illuminates individuals to unlock their full potential in both personal and professional lives.
Renowned for creating “wow factor” moments, Priscilla has an esteemed clientele, including brands like BMW, LinkedIn, iHeart Radio, Michael Jordan’s Air Jordans, Pfizer, Bacardi, Cosmo Latina Magazine, and Zappos. Her impressive credits include sharing the stage with Joan Jett, Will-i-am, Pitbull, Enrique Iglesias, and Marc Anthony, as well as performances on America’s Got Talent, The Latin Grammy Awards, The NHL Awards, Comic Relief, and Celebrity Cruises. Priscilla has also graced the prestigious TEDx stage, where she delivered a compelling talk that resonated with audiences, showcasing her ability to captivate and inspire on a global platform.
In addition, Priscilla hosts the podcast “Spark Your Inner Fire” which delves into the creative mind, torching the inner critic, and reigniting purpose. Through interviews with world-renowned creatives, she shares stories and wisdom, illuminating listeners on their journeys.
In essence, Priscilla Pfeiffer is not only a veteran but a trailblazer whose performances consistently inspire, motivate, and create lasting impressions.
