By Natalie J. Armstrong,
www.MarketingMediation.com

If you’re one of the 35.000 conflict resolutionists in the US who will be attending either the ABA’s Dispute Resolution Section’s conference in Washington, DC  or the Association for Conflict Resolution’s (ACR’s) conference in Phoenix, AZ you’ll want go prepared. As a previous and future Presenter, Exhibitor and Attendee I can attest that these kinds conferences are the Olympics of networking. They contain virtually every type of networking environment. Business meetings, social gatherings, cocktail parties, dinners, lunches, individual encounters and sometimes even reunions. Although some of these events may be called social, make no mistake about it, you’re there on business, you’re there to netWORK.

And it is work! But take heart, with a little bit of planning and strategizing these conferences can also be great fun. After all, we’re professional communicators there to communicate with others.

Whether you’re going as a presenter, exhibitor, or attendee (or all three) there are certain strategies that will help you make the most of the event.

First you need to plan for things to run smoothly in your absence. Plan for your absence at work AND home since any loose ends may mean a less productive event.

Second, plan your time at the event. You’ll first need to get the facts straight about dates, locations, times, and accommodations. Most groups send out an advance schedule of events. Make use of these materials and strategize a little. Make a map of which presentations you’re interested in, what booths you’d like to visit and which people to like to meet or reunite with.

Next be sure you understand why you’re attending the event. Are you attending to gain information, obtain new business, acquire new skills, or investigate new trends or developments? Are you expected to report your findings? If you’re attending simply to increase your contact database, then you may want to forego the seminars themselves and concentrate on the time in exhibitor’s hall. You can always buy the tapes later, but one-on-one time spent with a valuable contact is priceless.

Third, plan your wardrobe. I know, I know, this seems a bit “Miss Manners”. But if in fact you’re attending to make contacts then you’re going to want to make the best impression you can. Although most conferences take place in locations that are destination cities, and are usually held during the weekend, don’t make the mistake of wearing your weekend togs. This is a professional event look professional.

Fourth, when you schedule your travel arrangements leave plenty of breathing room on either side of your commitments. Your event will be much more effective if you’re not jet lagged and your return home and work will be much less stressed if you have some time to detox from the event and the toll it is certain to take.

Next, don’t forget to bring everything you’ll need to record expenses, take notes, collect business cards and gather information. Don’t forget your own business cards or brochures!!

Lastly, remember the basics. Go with a positive attitude, keep your focus in clear sight, and follow up with contacts and opportunities.

Natalie J. Armstrong is the Founder and Managing Director of Golden Media, a marketing and consulting firm dedicated to promoting the resolution industry. She is the author of The Essential Guide to Marketing Your ADR Practice and speaks internationally on business development and the successful marketing strategies of the conflict resolution industry. More ADR Practice Development articles and information about Ms. Armstrong and Golden Media can be found at www.MarketingMediation.com.