The Power of Motivation and a FREE Conference Checklist!
I have to start this off with my initial thoughts on symposiums and conferences. I used to think it was all a bunch of rah-rah. I’d come home from the event super pumped and then slowly deflate from there. I never took advantage and rode the wave of motivation – until this past symposium.
I heard about the Office Depot Foundation Women’s Symposium through a friend and being newly in the entrepreneurial world, I decided to invest in myself and signed up to go. Yesterday, I woke up late and scrambled to get dressed and out the door. Arriving at the event, I was apprehensive as to how the day was going to unfold and a bit nervous to put myself out there and mingle with other business women. I pulled up my big girl panties and jumped right in, and I am very glad I did.
Speaker after speaker reinforced my decision to branch out and start my own marketing firm. I learned about different business plans other than the one I had fabricated in my mind that wasn’t working as well as I wished. I met some powerful and super nice like-minded women who were also putting themselves out there to learn and network. As I sat there with my cup of peppermint tea, I felt at ease. I was with my new “tribe”.
I listened to one of my favorite authors, Jen Lancaster (Bitter is the New Black), explain her trials and tribulations that got her to where she is now – a New York Times Best Seller writer! (I also scored an autographed book!)
The last portion of the event was speed networking and it really forced me to come out of my shell. I consider myself friendly and love to talk, but this required me giving a 90 second pitch of what I do and then also telling what I need to make my business grow. I was a bit flustered at first, but what did I have to lose? I stumbled the first time, but once I was done I felt so powerful (not like She-Ra powerful, but you know what I mean…). I put myself out there. I told strangers about my business. It took my to a whole new level – I’ve been thankful for finding clients through word of mouth but now I was gaining a great reception from people I didn’t know!
I can’t tell you how much this once noted “rah-rah” type of event has really pumped me up to bring my business to the next level. As I type this it is a weekend day, but I want to call all of my new-found prospects and chat with them one-on-one. I want to revel in the excitement that this symposium has infused in me.
In the meantime (until Monday morning comes along), I decided to make a checklist of items you will need, both physical and mental, to be fully prepared for the next conference you go to.
The speed networkings sounds awesome! I’m sure it was tough at first but such good practice putting yourself and your vision out there!
The speed networking was really cool and it helped me get out of my shell!
I’m the exact same at conferences: I’m outgoing but need to kick myself in the pants (or skirt) to mingle. This post was encouraging and actually gave me insight on a few of my own conferences coming up!
I’m so glad Amanda! Good luck at your upcoming conferences!
I love conferences as a break from the every day where you can get ideas of what others are doing. They may be doing it better or just different and infusing those ideas into your own routine can give you a boost. Networking is key:)
I completely agree with you Kim, networking is key!
I am new to blogging so I need to find some conferences.I need the pep talk and the resources.Thanks for reminding me.
My pleasure!!
I would love to go to a conference and its on my list! What is your elevator pitch?
Ashley, thanks for asking – and please tell me what you think! “I help small businesses and entrepreneurs put together the marketing puzzle pieces, allowing them to spend their valuable time to do what they do best.”
Great tips! I love conferences! They seriously are like a match to light the fire 🙂 That Jen Lancaster book is great!
Thanks Melissa! Conferences are the best!
This is wonderful! I’d love to go to a motivational conference like this! I know part of my personality would be apprehensive, but I also think it would be so helpful for me! Thank you for sharing!
My pleasure for sharing Ashleigh! I hope you get to go to a conference soon!
This is amazing! I would love to go to one of these symposiums one day. Do you know if there is a way to find these sorts of things near me?
Nicole, I would Google “conferences” or “events” and your location and see if anything comes up. Also touch base with your local chamber of commerce as they may know of any, or sponsor any events like this one!
Conferences are so inspiring. I’m not very outgoing, but somehow I manage to pump myself up to talk to people when I’m at one. It’s one of the main reasons to go, after all! 🙂
Crystal, that’s how I become at conferences as well!
I love conferences!!! It is a total break from the everyday life and always so inspiring. Thank you for such an encouraging post!
Thanks for stopping by Ruthie! I am so glad you liked the post 🙂
I am generally that person with no filter who ends up offending people, so when I am in large groups – especially at a conference – I keep to myself.
Robin, I bet you’re a blast to hang out with! My best friend since I was 3 is the same way!
The speed networking would be great for anyone with a business!
Totally Heather! It’s a great way to meet people on the fly!
Sounds like you had a wonder experience!!! So excited for you!
Thanks Maya! It was a great experience!
I love speed networking. It is a great way to meet new people.
It is a lot of fun and really puts you out there!
Wish to attend this one of a kind gathering too. I’m also new in blogger world so I need some information and meet people that helps me boost my knowledge in this journey.
There are a lot of conferences out there – I recommend Googling conferences in your area or contacting your local chamber of commerce!
I think in some ways regrets are good because then you learn to not do that thing again to avoid future mistakes or heartache. However, it is better to have done something and be hurt then regret than what ifs.
Very well said, Kathy. How do you know it is something that will not work out if you don’t try?
i am so glad that this provided some inspiration for you to branch out and start your own marketing firm. motivation is very important!
Thank you Michelle! I hope to attend more of these in the future.
I always say “Keep moving forward”, we are incredible human beings, if we set our mind to do something we make it possible.
I love your saying Amy!
This is what I love about listening or attending talks and conferences. They enlighten you and help you realize the things you want to achieve in life. It’s really motivating and inspiring.
Yes! The motivation and inspiration is fabulous – it puts that fire under your butt, so to speak, to just get out there and do it!
It sounds like you had a great time! I love attending events like this and while I agree with you that the network pushes me out of my comfort zone, I’m always so glad to have participated!
I did have a great time, Jeannette. I need to do this more often!
I would love to attend to a conference like this, I need to recharge my self from everyday life stress and be my self again and motivated.
You should look into conferences in your area – they are so revitalizing!
My wife is a new blogger and could really use this. The conference sounds amazing!
Jonathan, conferences like this are very motivating! You can google to find blogging specific conferences – I’m going to one in August that’s in CA. If she’s interested, she can totally email me for details! dana (at) pellerini (dot) com.
I have never been to a conference before, but this one sounds pretty amazing
I’ve never been to a such conference before, this one seems really amazing! The speed networking sounds like a very powerful and productive activity for meeting new people and expending professionals contacts!
Conference does feed my mind and soul. Might be having the need to attend one soon!
Definitely look into one!
The 90 second pitch for speed networking sounds fun. That’s a good idea to incorporate into an event.
I always come out really pumped then like you said after a few days it just drains away. I need a kick too because there is a lot to gain
Definitely try to sign up for one!
I’ve attended a few conference, in, the past. I’m shy, and it’s disappointing. I do miss out on opportunities, and then I think oh well. But, I can’t do business like that. Thanks for this, it’s really helpful thank you.
Glad you liked it Nicole!
I am not familiar with Jen Lancaster, but I am motivated to see what her books are all about. Sounds like you had a very motivating and inspirational experience at this event!
Yona, it was a great experience! I highly recommend Jen’s books!
Thank you for the checklist! I love getting a little extra motivation, and I’m glad this conference provided you with so much!