As you plan out this next year, are you taking into account which conferences will have the right impact your business needs to make 2023 a landmark year? Attending conferences can be a great opportunity to learn new things, network with industry professionals, and get inspired. But if you’re not careful, they also have a reputation of being a waste of time and money.
I’ve found that how you approach conferences, how ready you are to make changes when you go, and which conferences you choose to attend have the biggest impact on whether or not you can justify the expenses of time and money that conferences represent. Here are the three things to keep in mind to make sure you get something more than a lighter wallet from your next conference.
Make Your Choice Right
I hear a dangerous idea promulgated that undermines the confidence of those who believe it: “What if I choose wrong?” This is entirely the wrong question. What you need to be asking yourself is how to make your choice right.
How you approach your next conference is one of the most important ways to get something more out of it than an expensive trip. Are you doing more than taking notes and forgetting them the next day? Are you there for more than a good time? Whatever conference you choose to attend, be more than just at the conference—be present.
Once you’ve chosen a conference, go with the intent to make that choice the right one. What you do, how you do it, and what you take from the conference are up to you. What you get out of a conference is in your control.
Be Ready To Change
If you don’t attend your next real estate conference with a learner’s heart, why are you there? The information you receive at a good conference could change your business, but only if you implement it. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Be open to new ideas and perspectives, and be willing to change your approach.
If you feel you know better than those putting on the conference, then one of two things is true: you haven’t got the right attitude or you aren’t at the right conference.
Pick The Right Conference
Not every conference is created equal. While you can positively impact what you get from a conference with your mindset, attitude, and readiness, it’s best to first do your research and choose the best conference for your needs. Who is speaking, what’s their experience, and what actionable items will you leave with?
If a conference is just hype, it’s probably bound to be a lot of fun and give you ample opportunities to network and enjoy yourself, but it’s unlikely to change your business. Go where the meat is—find the places that will have the impact you actually need to supercharge your business.
By following these three tips, you can ensure that you get the most from your next real estate conference. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, attending a conference can be a valuable and rewarding experience—but it all depends on how you approach it, your own mindset, and the conference you choose.
