TJ - The Publication for Learning and Development

Editorial

By Debbie Carter (May 2008 Issue)
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There are so many ways of being plugged into our industry: magazines like TJ, membership of specialist organisations and virtual professional networks, for example. However, given that these options come to us via postman or PC, we often overlook our need to attend face-to-face events like workshops, seminars and conferences.

Last month I took four days out of my week to attend a major L&D conference and, although it may seem an extravagant use of my time, it certainly provided a great opportunity to keep abreast of the latest news and ideas. For me, it was equally important to attend to meet new people in our industry.

While virtual professional networks are useful, they cannot match the engagement and excitement that can be inspired by an informal conversation at the delegates’ drinks reception. Virtual environments are fine for some highly connected people but the lack of face-to-face interaction can result in a sterile and narrow perspective.

Sitting down to dinner with a group of professionals, some of whom you do not know, results in real conversation – not the short, sharp sentences fired off into a virtual network, but small talk. The cynical among us may question the value of such conversations in business but, in fact, they are critical in establishing a personal connection with other professionals in your field. Okay, they may not be customers or vendors but they are people, and sometimes we need to hone our people skills.

So, as TJ’s own conference approaches next month, here are my recommendations for making the most of your visit to any conference.

Always read the conference agenda thoroughly and choose sessions that stretch you. I often attend sessions where the speaker may not be an expert in my particular field, because a fresh perspective from an individual not in your industry can provide real eureka! moments.

Try to be an active participant: asking questions and being involved with the discussion will add an extra dimension to the workshops and seminars. Use a professional colleague as your conference partner: sharing opinions and discussing the conference sessions helps to embed and enhance your learning.

Be prepared for serious networking: have some cards with you and practise what you want to say about yourself and your organisation.

Follow up your new business colleagues by email soon after the event, as these professional networks are an important part of your career plan. A word of warning on the subject of conference parties, though: remember you are not really ‘off duty’ and your behaviour might be observed by employers, clients and business partners.

Always stay for the whole conference: by arriving late or leaving early you may miss valuable information. When you get back to work, share what you have learned from the conference with your manager and colleagues: again, this sharing process will ensure greater transfer of learning into the workplace.

Attending a conference is a costly business in both time and money but, with a focused approach, they can provide real returns for your professional development and for your organisation’s bottom line.

To find out more about the TJ Annual Conference or to book a place visit www.trainingjournal.com/conference or contact Peter Wright on +44 (0) 20 7096 2936.

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