So, you are off to conference of your choice AND (like that's not enough), the conference is being held in Las Vegas. Good for you and I know what you're probably thinking (and yeah, be ready to have the time of your life as well) but you must prepare in advance to make sure it all goes smoothly.
Read up on current trends
You don't want to be feeling lift out or like you're unsure about what the conference is about. Don't let the new trends catch you of guard. About a week before your Las Vegas Conference set aside about two hours a day to read up on current trends in your field of work. You can also Google the speakers to see what they have been up to lately.
Be prepared to socialize
I know you already had this in mind when you realized it's being hosted at Vegas, BUT, this is also part of the "work" so before letting your hair down, be ready to do some networking as well. There will be a time to party at a Las Vegas Conference, fear not, but first you must get the best out of it. Networking and making contacts can do just as much for your career as investing in education. So don't let this crucial element be underestimated.Be ready to listen to other people's ideas and share your own
Yup this is still the work part we're talking about but be prepared to listen to other people's (sometimes complex) ideas and provide some valuable feedback. Also use that chance to pitch you own ideas as well when it's possible. Sometimes getting the other perspective makes all the difference.
Eat with different people every day
Same goes for drinks at the bar, coffee breaks and other social events. That way you'll have constant influx of new people, expand your social network and might get into some very interesting conversations. They don't have to last very long; you just need to make a bit of effort to get them going.
Invest in your contacts after it's all done
Let's be honest, the contact drop rate after a conference is very high. Especially when it comes to Las Vegas conference, as more people are there to enjoy the nightlife than in other towns, but that being said, keeping up with the contact you made is a two way street. No need to push it hard, drop them an email or a text and if they don't reply don't take it personally but if they do you made a contact - job well done.
Have fun and enjoy
Last but not least after all the work stuff is done and taken care of, don't forget to explore that glorious city and let go a little bit! Las Vegas Conference offers the perfect combination of work and play; make sure you take advantage of it!
Read up on current trends
You don't want to be feeling lift out or like you're unsure about what the conference is about. Don't let the new trends catch you of guard. About a week before your Las Vegas Conference set aside about two hours a day to read up on current trends in your field of work. You can also Google the speakers to see what they have been up to lately.
Be prepared to socialize
I know you already had this in mind when you realized it's being hosted at Vegas, BUT, this is also part of the "work" so before letting your hair down, be ready to do some networking as well. There will be a time to party at a Las Vegas Conference, fear not, but first you must get the best out of it. Networking and making contacts can do just as much for your career as investing in education. So don't let this crucial element be underestimated.Be ready to listen to other people's ideas and share your own
Yup this is still the work part we're talking about but be prepared to listen to other people's (sometimes complex) ideas and provide some valuable feedback. Also use that chance to pitch you own ideas as well when it's possible. Sometimes getting the other perspective makes all the difference.
Eat with different people every day
Same goes for drinks at the bar, coffee breaks and other social events. That way you'll have constant influx of new people, expand your social network and might get into some very interesting conversations. They don't have to last very long; you just need to make a bit of effort to get them going.
Invest in your contacts after it's all done
Let's be honest, the contact drop rate after a conference is very high. Especially when it comes to Las Vegas conference, as more people are there to enjoy the nightlife than in other towns, but that being said, keeping up with the contact you made is a two way street. No need to push it hard, drop them an email or a text and if they don't reply don't take it personally but if they do you made a contact - job well done.
Have fun and enjoy
Last but not least after all the work stuff is done and taken care of, don't forget to explore that glorious city and let go a little bit! Las Vegas Conference offers the perfect combination of work and play; make sure you take advantage of it!