What You Can Expect at Affiliate Summit East 2009
With Affiliate Summit East just around the corner you may be wondering exactly what to expect. As a first time convention goer myself, I know I am. This year’s Affiliate Summit East is being held in New Year City at the Hilton New York. With three full days of keynote speakers, clinics, classes and after parties, industry leaders are given the opportunity to network with each other all the while promoting their affiliate program. From what to wear to which classes are best to how this will benefit me overall, it’s probably better off that I start by asking the questions.
What do you want to get out of the Conference?
As I mentioned, I have never been to a conference of this size before and I am very much looking forward to it. I am sure that I’m not the only one going for the first time and I’m betting the other first-timers have also wondered what they are looking to get out of this conference. It’s important to know what your expectations are prior to attending. First of all, I’m extremely excited to be there with our affiliate team representing The JAR Group. I am the newest member to this team, but am lucky to be working with two extremely talented and experienced affiliate managers. I believe that being at Affiliate Summit East with these two women as well as the majority of the rest of the team will be a great experience. Promoting our brand as well as our services will hopefully allow us to build strong relationships with other conference attendees. I am hoping to create business partnerships and even friendships that will last long after Affiliate Summit East ’09 has ended. Being in the presence of so many industry leaders, I am hoping to leave with more affiliate knowledge than I came with. Attending sessions on creating lasting relationships, personal branding and social media marketing present all attendees with an amazing opportunity for new insight. With names from Amazon, Facebook, Google and hundreds more I am definitely looking forward to hearing the speakers and walking away with new ideas inspired by these people. Throughout the sessions and the keynote speakers I am really hoping to get some tips from these industry experts on how to grow The JAR Group’s affiliate accounts and create stronger more efficient programs for our clients. And of course, I’m hoping for some great after parties, who isn’t, right?
Ok, now for what to actually expect…
Between online resources and my colleagues, I have somewhat of an idea of what to expect as well as some other general tips that first time conference goers should know about. With over 2,700 people attending the conference, 30 or 40 business cards aren’t going to cut it. You will be meeting so many people that most likely you are hoping to make an impression on. Without handing out your business cards, people probably are not going to remember you. Along those same lines, be sure to get a lot of cards. This way you can remember who you made connections with and follow up with them later. Also, use your time at the conference wisely. Three days will go by quick, it is important to plan ahead. Know which sessions you want to attend and even schedule meeting with people you know will be there beforehand. Check out the list of companies that will be there so you will know which booths you are looking for. Know what you want to say about your company or your clients. You may only have ten to twenty seconds and a handshake to grab someone’s attention. Make sure what you say is on point and interesting. Lastly, I’ve been reminded at least five times to remember to wear comfortable shoes!! You’ll be on your feet for anywhere from 10-12 hours, so I think that is some advice I definitely plan on taking! Hope to see you all there!!
