June was a big month for me. It was the kind of month filled with progress to let me know that I’m moving in the right direction. I also believe that entrepreneurs need every little sign to confirm that they’re moving in the right direction.
As a networker I strongly encourage professionals to attend at least one conference a year. If you ever been to a conference you know cost can add up very quickly. Last month I attended three conference and six this year. I know there are some conference junkies that far exceed my track record whether as a speaker or an attendee, but this is a tipping point for me as I continue to pursue my speaking career.
- Oil & Gas Admins International – I was able to speak on Strategic Networking among professionals within the oil and gas industry. I’m based in Houston where oil and gas has a big market size when it comes to employment and business for the city. As usual I had a great time speaking. Every time I present I become more and more comfortable regardless of the environment and more of my personality continues to shine. I was able to reconnect with a few colleagues, meet new people and gained another speaking engagement from it.
- Blogging While Brown Conference – I love the nature of this story. Going back a bit I submitted to speak at the conference. Although declined, there was enough interest for me to snag a webinar to present to attendees. This was a great opportunity and perfect as my message is suitable to prepare people for attending a conference. I’ve been blogging for years on various topics, but the conference put a lot of pieces together in order for me to grow my platform. I had a chance to meet representatives from NBC Blk, Grammy award winning artist Lacrae, radio and tv personality Jacque Reid, Lamar & Ronnie Tyler from BlackandMarriedWithKids.com and a slew of popular bloggers from across the country.
- Mashable Houston Social Media Day Conference – Speaking at this event was superb. I spoke on Using Social Media Marketing as a Subject Matter Expert. The significance of this event allowed me to meet and mingle among some of Houston’s best social media experts. It’s always a pleasure to meet someone you are following on Twitter! After my presentation, I was also able to snag another event that I’m looking forward to.
There are so many things one can draw from with each of these experiences. First, put yourself out there for opportunities. I had a chance to speak at three different conferences in different capacities and remained effective in each. Second, speak to as many people as possible. One thing I like about conferences is the fact that you are surrounded by likeminded people making it a bit easier to start a conversation. I was talking to bloggers that have strong audiences and brands that I’ve never heard of before. At the Social Media Day Conference I was amongst people that are listed among Houston’s top social media experts each year. I went from social networking to direct networking with the ability to learn from them during their presentation or in conversation. No matter your position in life you have to be willing to learn from others.
What conferences have you attended so far this year? What conferences are you looking forward to within the next few months? Share your comments with me and find me on Twitter @michellengome
Personal Connection, Influential Network
