Wow – I’ve just left the opening session of the Eventology Conference in Indianapolis and returned to my room in order to write today’s post.  I had planned to write today on the importance of attending professional conferences, and incredibly, the amazing Ali Phillips addressed this in her welcome message.  I don’t believe much in coincidence, rather I feel that this topic is just so timely for our industry.  I’m so glad we addressed this topic this morning, because there were some additional points addressed that I hadn’t considered.  Here are my notes from this morning’s session:

Reasons why we don’t attend conferences:

-  Expense

-  Lack of focused content – conference material is “recycled”

-  Lack of credible speakers

-  Time commitment (hard to schedule around events, hard to take time away from our businesses and families, etc.)

-  We may feel shy or socially awkward – it’s hard to put yourself “out there”

-  Geography – depending on where you live, it may be difficult to travel to conferences, and conferences may not come to your area

Reasons why we should attend conferences:

-  to motivate us

-  to be inspired

-  to feed off of each other/ to be encouraged and to encourage in return

-  to further our education about the industry, add new skills, find out about trends

-  to build lasting relationships

-  to get a competitive edge – attending conferences sets us apart from others

I think this quote from Ali sums it all up, “We attend conferences to become and remain successful.”  I feel motivated and empowered already.  There really is such wonderful energy here!

I’ll be continuing coverage of Eventology for the next couple of days.  In fact, here’s a snapshot of the editorial calendar for this week: 

Two wonderful ladies will be covering topics for me tomorrow and Wednesday.  Don’t be surprised if Jen or NaShara stop you and ask to take a picture of you for either of our upcoming features .

Also, I have a Style Profile spot open on Thursday for the first person to send in a submission.  It’s so easy.  You can access the guidelines and questionnaire here:  The Stylish Planner Featured Planner Guidelines.  You can also stop me and ask me to e-mail you the guidelines from my phone – I’d be happy to do that.

People attend conferences for different reasons.  Whatever reason brought you to Eventology, I’m so happy you are here.  Please make a point to connect with me and say “Hi”.  I’d love to meet you!