Figuring out how to get the most out of internet marketing conferences takes experience with plenty of conferences, including events like Search Engine Strategies happening in San Jose this week. So it seems fitting to follow up on Danny Sullivan’s advice with the insight of fellow Minnesotan, Chris Sherman.
Chris is co-founder of Third Door Media as well as the SMX conferences, has a search marketing consulting business and has been as involved with the details of conference programming, moderating and speaking as anyone you can find.
When torn between going to one session over another, go to the one that has fewest attendees. With so many people live blogging conferences these days, the odds are good that someone (or many) will be covering the popular session, so you’ll effectively get a two-fer even without personally attending both.
Offer feedback! If you really like (or really dislike) something at a conference, let the organizers know. We are total feedback junkies and really value input from attendees. Some of the best ideas for new content or different ways of doing things at SMX have come from attendees. And we’re also happy to answer questions or offer suggestions to anyone – all you need to do is ask!
Conference blogging plus Powerpoint decks may not be as good as the live session, but can offer great insight when combined. Feedback is especially important for conferences to improve their programming and meet the needs of attendees. Well said Chris, thanks.
The next tipster for internet marketing conferences is anther experienced conference programmer, David Berkowitz, who is Director of Emerging Media & Client Strategy at 360i and Programming Chair of MediaPost’s Search Insider Summit
Do you have conference tips to share? What advice can you give to help others get more out of attending internet marketing conferences?
