How can you make the most of industry events for Performance Management?

1 Choose the right events

Not all events are created equal. Some may be more relevant, reputable, and rewarding than others. Before you register for an event, do some research on the agenda, speakers, sponsors, and attendees. Look for events that align with your goals, interests, and needs. For example, if you want to improve your skills in a specific area of performance management, look for events that offer workshops, sessions, or certifications on that topic. If you want to expand your network, look for events that attract diverse and influential participants.

2 Prepare in advance

Once you have decided which events to attend, you need to prepare yourself for them. This means setting clear objectives, planning your schedule, and preparing your materials. For example, you may want to define what you want to learn, achieve, or gain from each event. You may also want to plan which sessions, booths, or activities you want to attend or participate in. Additionally, you may want to prepare your business cards, elevator pitch, and questions for speakers or exhibitors.

3 Engage actively

During the event, you need to engage actively with the content and the people. This means paying attention, taking notes, asking questions, and participating in discussions. It also means networking effectively, which involves introducing yourself, exchanging contacts, and building rapport. You can use social media, apps, or online platforms to connect with other attendees, speakers, or organizers. You can also join or create groups, chats, or forums related to the event or your interests.

4 Follow up promptly

After the event, you need to follow up promptly with the people and the information you have collected. This means sending thank-you notes, feedback, or referrals to the speakers, exhibitors, or organizers. It also means reaching out to the contacts you have made, and keeping in touch with them. You can use email, phone, or social media to follow up, depending on the preference and availability of the other person. You can also invite them to join your network, share resources, or collaborate on projects.

5 Apply what you learned

Finally, you need to apply what you learned from the event to your own performance management practice. This means reviewing your notes, summarizing your key takeaways, and identifying your action steps. It also means implementing your action steps, measuring your results, and evaluating your progress. You can use tools, templates, or frameworks to help you apply what you learned. You can also seek feedback, support, or guidance from your peers, mentors, or coaches.

6 Keep learning and growing

Industry events are not the only way to learn and grow as a performance management professional. You can also use other sources, such as books, podcasts, blogs, courses, or webinars. You can also join or create communities, groups, or associations related to performance management. You can also seek opportunities, challenges, or projects that allow you to practice and improve your skills. The key is to keep learning and growing, and to make the most of every opportunity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?