Getting the Most Return-On-Investment at the IPSB Close Protection Conference.

The IPSB Close Protection Conference (CPC) is just around the corner, taking place from December 9-11, 2024, in Nashville, TN. As the flagship event in the executive protection industry, the CPC attracts practitioners, trainers, industry leaders, and business owners from around the globe. ?If you are someone who is trying to get your foot in the door in this dynamic and demanding industry, this is your opportunity to network, gain valuable insights, and make a lasting impression, positive or negative, in a field where relationships and reputations are paramount.

Here are some suggestions to help you get the most out of your experience. These suggestions are universal to any conference, not just the CPC.

First and Foremost, Leave Your Ego at the Door

You will be among approximately 700 Type A+ personalities attending this event, each with their own set of impressive accomplishments and unique experiences. ?While it may be tempting to project an image of yourself as the ultimate operator, John Wick fused with Chuck Norris and a splash of Jason Statham, remember, no one is impressed by arrogance or self-importance…and there is no shortage of that in this industry.?

What does impress people is humility, approachability, and a willingness to learn from others. Leave your ego behind, and instead, focus on genuine engagement. Be the person who listens, contributes meaningfully, and respects the knowledge and experience others bring to the table. The most respected professionals are often those who know they always have more to learn.

Dress to Impress

Your appearance matters. The way you present yourself speaks volumes about your professionalism and your commitment to the industry. Every day at the conference is an opportunity to make a strong first impression. While a suit is not mandatory, dressing professionally will help you stand out in the crowd.

You may see some attendees in jeans, sneakers and rock band t-shirts, but remember, they may have already "made it" and no longer feel the need to impress, or perhaps they simply do not understand the importance of a professional image. ?For you, the goal is to be remembered for all the right reasons. ?As the saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Come Prepared with Business Cards

In a digital age, many people rely on electronic business cards that instantly transfer contact information to a smartphone. While convenient, these methods have their limitations—especially if you later forget the person’s name or company. ??After a conference where I have received a dozen “digital cards”, ?I often find myself scrolling through my phone contacts, hoping to spot something familiar. ?A physical business card serves as a tangible reminder of your interaction, a visual complement to the digital exchange, and a subtle way to stay on someone's mind if they place it on their desk.

Skip the Paper Resume—Send It Later

Although bringing a resume may seem like a good idea, the reality is that most resumes handed out at conferences end up misplaced. Most senior industry leaders prefer to travel light and are unlikely to want to carry around a stack of resumes from people they have just met.? Instead, focus on building genuine connections and follow up with a well-crafted email after the event. Attach your resume, and include a reminder of your conversation to ensure you are memorable.

Navigate Nashville with Professionalism

Nashville is a vibrant city with a well-earned reputation for nightlife. While it can be tempting to dive into the city’s party scene, keep your priorities straight. ?You are attending the conference to learn, network, and enhance your career, not to overindulge. ?Enjoy yourself responsibly, but avoid staying out until the early hours, drinking excessively, showing up late and disheveled and falling asleep during conference sessions.

Be On Time and Professional

Punctuality is a simple yet powerful way to convey professionalism. ?Arrive early to sessions, meetings, and networking events. ?Showing up late disrupts the flow of the event and can leave a negative impression.

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Language: Mind Your Words

Some individuals in our industry come from environments where “colorful language” is not only accepted but expected, places where high-stakes, high-stress situations often come with a colorful vocabulary. However, this conference is not one of those environments.

Be mindful of your language and avoid profanity. Dropping the “F-Bomb,” especially every other word, can be off-putting and unprofessional and may detract from the positive impression you are aiming to make. Remember, language reflects your professionalism and self-control. A well-spoken individual conveys respect and credibility, traits that leave a lasting, positive impression on others.

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Show Respect for the Speakers

The speakers at the IPSB CPC are not paid, nor are their travel expenses reimbursed. They are volunteering their time and expertise because they are passionate about sharing knowledge and advancing the profession. ?Demonstrate your appreciation by attending every session and giving them your full attention.

Do not spend the time hanging out with vendors or chatting with friends outside the session rooms. While networking is important, there are designated times for it. ?Being present and engaged during the presentations shows respect and reflects positively on you as a professional. ?Take notes, ask thoughtful questions, and use these sessions as an opportunity to gain insights that you can apply to your career.

The CPC is a rare chance to connect with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Be intentional about introducing yourself to others, asking about their experiences, and sharing your objectives. ?Have a 30-second introduction prepared, often called an "elevator pitch." to succinctly convey who you are and what you are looking to achieve.

Do not just aim to meet the "big names." ?Sometimes, your most valuable connections will be with those on a parallel trajectory who can offer advice, guidance, contacts or future opportunities.

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Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

It is easy to stick with what is familiar—spending time with people you already know and avoiding situations that feel intimidating. ?However growth happens outside of your comfort zone. ?Use this conference as an opportunity to approach people you do not know, introduce yourself, and start conversations.

I understand how challenging this can be. Believe it or not, I have often felt awkward and intimidated when approaching strangers to introduce myself. It has never come easily to me either. Would they think I was being too forward by joining their conversation? Would they feel I was not on their level? Would I say something foolish, which, admittedly, I have done more times than I care to remember? But, like anything else, it becomes easier with practice. Take small steps: begin with a friendly smile, a handshake, and a simple introduction. You will be surprised how quickly connections form when you take that first step.

Remember, the people you meet could become lifelong colleagues, mentors, or even future collaborators. ?Do not let fear hold you back from forging meaningful relationships.

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Networking: It's a Two-Way Street

Networking is a two-way street. Think about how you can add value to others, whether it is by sharing your own insights, offering assistance, or simply showing genuine interest in their stories. ?Relationships built on mutual respect and support are the most enduring.

Plan Ahead

Review the conference agenda in advance and identify the sessions and events that align with your goals. ?Prioritize your time to ensure you do not miss opportunities that are most relevant to your interests. ?Make a list of key people you would like to meet and vendors you want to visit and then do it.?

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Show Appreciation to Vendors and Sponsors

Vendors and sponsors play a critical role in making events like the Close Protection Conference possible. Their contributions help bring the conference to life, and many of them are there to connect with attendees like you.

Take a moment to visit their booths, introduce yourself, and learn about the products or services they offer. Even if you are not in the market at that time for what they are providing, show genuine interest, take any materials they are offering, and thank them for their support. ?

A simple “Thank you for being here” can go a long way in acknowledging their efforts and building a positive rapport. Remember, these companies are as much a part of the industry as practitioners, and they often bring innovative solutions that can benefit your work down the line. ?You never know when you or a colleague might need something they are offering, or when your next opportunity or key connection could arise from one of these conversations.

Prioritize Self-Care (Says the Guy Who Needs to Hear This Most)

Let me be honest here.? If there were an award for the worst offender of self-care, I would probably be a world champion.? But hey, that just means I have learned a thing or two the hard way! Conferences can be brutal if you are not taking care of yourself, so here is some advice that I might finally start following myself.

• Moderation is Key: Nashville might tempt you with its vibrant nightlife, but do not overindulge in alcohol. ?Enjoy yourself responsibly to avoid a sluggish morning or a less-than-professional appearance.
• Sleep Matters: Aim to get as much rest as you can. A good night’s sleep will keep you sharp, energized, and ready to engage.
• Stay Hydrated: Conferences are notorious for dehydrating environments.? Drink water whenever you can, or just follow my lead and get your hydration exclusively from coffee!
• Boost Your Immune System: Consider taking high doses of Vitamin C or your preferred immune support supplement to ward off any potential illness associated with large gatherings.
• Practice Good Hygiene: With so many people in one place, carry hand sanitizer and use it often, especially after shaking hands or handling shared items.
• Move Your Body: If you can, take short walks, stretch, or hit the gym before or after sessions. ?Physical activity can help reduce fatigue and stress.

The Importance of Follow-Up After the Conference

Following up after a conference is as vital as attending the event itself. The connections you make during the conference are only as valuable as the effort you put into maintaining and nurturing them. A thoughtful follow-up transforms fleeting introductions into meaningful relationships, setting the stage for future collaboration, referrals, or opportunities.

How to Follow-Up Effectively:

1. Act Quickly: Send follow-up emails or messages within a few days while the interactions are still fresh in everyone’s minds. A timely response shows enthusiasm and professionalism.
2. Personalize Your Message: To make your message more engaging and memorable, reference your conversation or a shared experience from the conference.
3. Offer Value: Share an article, resource, or insight relevant to your conversation. This gesture positions you as a helpful and knowledgeable contact.
4. Use Multiple Channels: If appropriate, connect on LinkedIn with a short personalized note. This not only helps you stay in touch but also expands your professional network.
5. Stay Organized: Keep track of the contacts you make by organizing them into categories, such as potential collaborators, mentors, or clients. A CRM tool or a simple spreadsheet can help you remember who is who.
6. Be Genuine: Authenticity matters. Focus on building relationships rather than simply expanding your network.

By following up thoughtfully, you demonstrate professionalism, solidify your presence in the minds of your new connections, and pave the way for meaningful, long-term relationships that extend well beyond the conference.

Final Thoughts

The Close Protection Conference is an investment in your career and your future in the executive protection industry. How you approach the event will determine the value you gain from it. ?Dress to impress, engage meaningfully with others, show respect for the speakers, and conduct yourself with professionalism throughout

By following these suggestions, you will maximize your investment and leave the conference with valuable connections, knowledge, and inspiration to take your career to the next level.

See you in Nashville!

Gerard Boniello, CPP, PSP, is the President of Omnium Protection Group, a global provider of executive security services.? Gerard is also a founding member of The Board of Executive Protection Professionals.

For more information, please visit Omnium Protection Group