Three Ways to Make the Most of the Conference Experience through the Year!
by Rheanna Bernard

Conferences and networking events – they might seem like a relic of the past. In a world of social media where people like to engage with each other without actually being in the same room the value of these types of events might be getting lost in our online world. But you can't undervalue them, for they provide a crucial element of success.

Connecting with real live people and creating relationships are such a valuable piece of the success puzzle. While I'm setting out to conquer the new year I want to make sure to include these types of events on my calendar. The NMSN conference in October was only a couple months ago, but the connections made are still forging ahead. How do you make sure to connect and stay moving forward with momentum post-conference?

1. Take out those business cards – Take out those cards that you collected and follow-up! If you're like me you become a business card collector at events like these. You grab them, exchange them and throw them in your computer bag, briefcase or purse. A stack of business cards is staring back at you by the end of the event and you're not quite sure what to do about it. A quick tip when you get these cards is to make a note on the back, something that you remember from the conversation you had with that person, an action item or something along those lines. Then, take them out! Once the conference is over follow-up, even if the only thing you say is “It was so nice to meet you at the conference!” This keeps the connection alive and who knows where that could lead?!
2. Stay physically connected through the year – One of the things I love about being a part of the NMSN community is the opportunities throughout the year to connect with those in the community. Whether you have those people locally or you figure out a way to connect online {like a group chat or a google hangout} keeping those connections alive past an occasional email is so important. The opportunity for connection, potential jobs or career support is so much greater when you keep the relationships alive. Plus its good for the soul. So, while you may one to retreat behind your computer and avoid putting yourself out there – Don't!
3. Come to the 2019 Event and bring a friend – Just because you went last year doesn't mean you shouldn't go again. I've heard it said, “Well, I went last year why go again?” Going to the same conference every year might seem boring, but it really connects my last two points together. The follow through and opportunity to come together again the following year is one of my favorite parts about being in this community. The conferences are never same, the information provided is different and you never know who you are going to meet! My favorite part is walking into the room, seeing a familiar face and making that physical connection with them. You are uniting together with a common goal. Yes, it is about professional development, possibly finding clients or even making a connection that helps you start that new career or business. It is also about support and advocacy, bringing together voices in a common bond.

Are you ready to join us and claim your seat at the table?! I know I want to see you there and I really hope you bring someone along with you to share that seat. When you bring yourself, always make sure you are looking behind you to see who else you can pull up with you! See you in October!!

 

  

 

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Rheanna Bernard
Blogger, Freelance Writer and Social Media Manager
Rheanna has been a lifestyle and military life blogger for over eight years. She is an Air Force National Guard spouse who has lived in three different states. She has been featured in Military Spouse Magazine, USA Today's InDefense and The Reserve and National Guard Magazine. Rheanna blogs and writes about her life as a military spouse and mom. She also works with clients in the military community, assisting them in growing their social media and developing creative content for websites and blogs. You can also tune into her podcast on Itunes and Googleplay, Common Sense and Sweet Tea.