Insights from Dana
The Insider’s Guide to Finding High-Value Conferences

Photo by Kevin Gonzalez

 

What makes a conference worth your time?

Even the best conference will be a waste of time and money if it isn’t the right fit for you.

So how do you identify the most impactful events?

The first thing you need to do is to identify your intentions.

What are you trying to accomplish by attending?

Try to be unbiased. Just because you went in the past doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you today.

If your intention is to do business, does your ideal client even go to this event?

If not, where are they? 

Because that is where you need to be.

 

7 Questions to Set Your Event Intentions

Think about what you want to get out of the conference.

  • What is it you want to accomplish?
  • Who do you want to connect with?
  • Do you want to leave with a new client?
  • Or start the conversation with a new power partner?
  • Are in the market for potential contractors?
  • Are there particular questions you want answers for?
  • Is there a specific topic you want to learn more about?

Write out your intentions for the conference–at least one, no more than three–and bring them with you.

Finding Your Perfect Conference Fit

Always set your goals and know what your “why?” is for going before you book any event. 

Then start doing your research to find the conferences that best fit your needs. 

Do your due diligence. If you have questions that aren’t answered by the event FAQ, contact the organizers for more information and find out what you need to know. 

Don’t buy the hype. If something seems too good to be true, or you can’t get a clear answer, it probably is. 

Know someone who went in the past? Check in to confirm it’s actually a good fit for you and get the inside scoop on how to make the most of your time.

 

 

Come Prepared to Contribute

Intentions led you to your event and they’ll help ensure your success when you get there too. 

Remember, every conference is full of people with skills and knowledge you don’t have. 

Can any of them help meet a need in your life? 

How can you help meet a need in theirs?

What are you going to share?

What are you bringing to the space?

What is your contribution?

Remember, there’s more to going to a conference than what you’ll get out of it. In order to create long-term, mutually beneficial business relationships, you need to give in return. 

One of my Catapult clients put a link to one of her classes directly on her business cards. So every time she hands out her card at an event she is giving away a class and creating another opportunity to connect. 

What can you do or share to offer value?

 

Crafting Your Conference Game Plan

Attending the right conference can be a game-changer for you and your business.

Finding the right event for you right now is all about knowing your goals and priorities. Remember to get clear on what you want to achieve before you book anything and make a point of being intentional about what you can contribute, too.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, sign new clients, learn new skills, or hire new talent, there’s a perfect event out there for you. You just have to put in the effort to find it.

Looking for more actionable business insights?

Whether it’s time to get more intentional about how you’re:

  • Making and spending money
  • Managing time and tasks
  • Hiring and onboarding
  • Investing in your personal leadership development
  • Cultivating a growth mindset

Dial in on the answers you need now with my Business Breakthrough Book List.

Get the list. Download your copy today.

dana corey signature

Like it? Share it!

0 Comments

Are You an Overloaded CEO?

Which of the 5 Swamped Business Owner Syndromes is keeping you overly busy, stressed, and exhausted?

Take this personalized assessment to find your strategic next steps.