You’ve already heard from a number of seasoned veterans on their tips and tricks for having the optimal experience at an ILTA conference. As with most things, the key is planning ahead. You might start with planning to attend the orientation session on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. in Maryland C (Conference Center). Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a veteran, you’ll learn the “insider” tips to make the most of the week ahead.
Plan Your Session Attendance
You’ve seen numerous messages in Randi’s news briefs about the various ways to map out your week. There are planning tools from the conference site, and we’ll be announcing a new digital program guide very soon. You should have a very good sense of those sessions that are most important to you before you arrive on property.
Plan Your Vendor Face Time
There are numerous opportunities for “casual” strolls through the exhibit hall, starting with Monday night’s social event, Tuesday morning’s “grand opening,” and many long breaks held there throughout the week. In planning ahead, make some appointments with key vendors, schedule time in their demo rooms or hospitality suites or set private appointments at your leisure.
Plan to Enjoy the Week
Without question, one of the greatest “take-aways” from an ILTA conference is the expansion of your peer network. Shake some hands – plan to reach out to folks you’ve never met before. Your name tag will identify your region, and you should be getting to know those peers who are in close proximity to you, as well as those who are “virtually” in your neighborhood. The networking events are many, and they’re great places to make some new life-long friends.
Plan to Take Care of Yourself
The week is jam-packed with learning and networking opportunities. It’s easy to be overwhelmed or be worn thin by the end of the week unless you take care of yourself. There is no shortage of good food during the week, and you should avail yourself of it. Try to work in some time to relax each day so that you can have energy to enjoy all activities.
Plan to Return a Star
Your newfound knowledge and peer connections will benefit you from day one upon your return to your office. Let your boss and your staff share a bit of what you experienced. There are ample ways to extend the value of ILTA ’09 long after you leave DC. Acquaint yourself with the various ways to obtain session recordings, session handouts, etc.
Filed under: 2009 Conference
