My story always seems to end the same way. I head out to the super market for a “few things” and can come home burdened with grocery bags filled with cravings, bargains, two for ones, must haves and more.
I never mean to do it. I always start with a basket rather than a carriage* to assure that I will limit my impulse buys. I try to plan my route through the store to achieve both accuracy and efficiency. I go in as a hunter but inevitably leave as a gatherer. As I roam, unfocused and overwhelmed, I begin to forget what I even came for. Dejected, defeated and exhausted, I shamefully bypass the express lane and assume my rightful place among the overflowing carriage crowd.
As a frequent attendee of professional development conferences during my career, I’ve come to realize that my lack of planning and focus is not limited to the grocery store. Here are a few things I have learned to maximize both my food shopping and conference attendance:
- Plan Before I head out, I make a list of what I am looking for. I make the list as specific as I can to help keep me focused and to limit my distractions. (Review the conference brochure and chose your sessions based on your short and long-term needs).
- Ask for help Rather than wander aimlessly, I have gotten into the habit of asking for help. If I am looking for something specific, I will ask those who may be more informed for help in finding it. (Bring along a notebook with some key questions. While networking, seek multiple answers to your key questions).
- Budget Going in with a clear understanding of what I can afford on this trip helps me to maximize my purchase power and get the most for my finite resources. (Have a clear understanding of the resources your organization is willing to dedicate).
- Buddy Up Two people with a shared understanding of what’s on “the list” can cover twice as much ground and also hold each other accountable. (Hint: If you are sitting in a session with your co-workers, you are minimizing your opportunities to learn as an organization and missing out on some great networking).
- Sample I lack the will power to pass up free samples. I attribute that to the mystical power of toothpicks with frilly shredded cellophane tops. These vendors are there to share something new with you; it would be rude not to have a little taste! (Make an effort to visit with the vendors. They are there to help you.)
I hope these simple reminders help you to maximize your investment at your next conference. Oh, and do try the cheddar-dill cubes, they are divine!
*Otherwise known as a “shopping cart” for the non-Bostonians among us.