Whether you’re hosting, speaking or a delegate at a conference, they can be enjoyable and rewarding. Conferences are a great place to meet people, discuss ideas and get inspired. However, there are certain things which you need to do to maximise your conference experience. We’ve put together some definitely “do nots” of conferences to ensure yours is the best.
1. You don’t dress for the occasion
Although business dress has become more lax in recent years, for a conference it’s important to look your best. Even if you don’t wear an elaborate suit, choose something comfortable that also looks smart. Be sure everything is ironed and looks presentable. Delegates are more likely to take you seriously if you look the part.
2. You don’t do your research
This goes for both delegate and speaker. Not doing your research beforehand can have dire consequences. You need to be clued up on the event, and speakers, and be ready to contribute. It’s a good idea to take a laptop or notepad and pen if you prefer the old-fashioned method. This way you can look back on your notes and use them to your advantage.
3. You don’t speak up
If you’re a part of the conference, make sure you get your say. Your information is valid so don’t be afraid to command the audience. As a delegate, asking questions and giving opinions is an important part of the conference. It can be daunting to speak in front of a large audience, but it helps you to achieve the best conference experience.
4. You don’t listen
Equally, whether you’re a guest or part of the panel, ensure you listen to everybody. If you allow yourself to get distracted, you could be missing out on vital information. Even if you’re a speaker, it’s vital to listen to others. You’ll be able to gain valuable knowledge in your field and consider ideas from a perspective that you may not have thought about before.
5. You aren’t prepared for the worst
If you are involved in running the conference, you should always have a backup plan for if something goes wrong. If planned well, everything should run smoothly but there’s always the chance of anomalies, so prepare for every occasion. You should also have a backup plan if you’re a delegate, such as what to do if you have problems with your method of transport or perhaps staying at the venue the night before to avoid travelling the day of the conference.
6. You allow your phone to distract you
Again, if you’re a delegate or a speaker, ensure your phone is turned off and put away. There’s nothing worse than a distracted audience, who are allowing technology to get in the way. Equally, before, during and after your speech, you don’t want to get caught up scrolling on your phone. Put it safely away to avoid this happening.
If you’re looking for a flexible space to host your conference, look no further than Kents Hill Park. We are located in Milton Keynes, with excellent transport links to the rest of the country. Please don’t hesitate to get in contact for more information.