The Power of Showing Up: Why In-Person Connections Still Matter

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the American College’s Conference for African American Financial Professionals (CAAFP), and let me tell you, it was more than just another industry event. It was a powerful reminder of why showing up in person is still so important, especially in a world that’s increasingly going virtual.

Here are a few takeaways and insights from my time at the conference:

Face-to-Face Builds Stronger Relationships

We’ve all gotten used to Zoom calls and virtual meetings, but there’s something about being in the same room with someone that just can’t be replicated. Whether it was catching up with old industry friends or meeting new ones, the connections felt more genuine and lasting. There’s a certain energy you get from giving someone a big 'ole hug, sharing a laugh, or even just a smile across the room that’s hard to find behind a screen.

The Magic of Spontaneous Collaboration

One of the best things about attending a conference in person is the unexpected conversations that can spark new ideas. After listening to a coaching client of mine totally crush his breakout session, I found myself in a hallway chat with another attendee that quickly turned into a brainstorming session. We didn’t plan it, but that’s the beauty of these events—sometimes the best collaborations happen when you least expect them.

Gaining Deeper Insights from Real Interactions

When you’re face-to-face, you can pick up on nuances that are easy to miss in a virtual setting. The tone of voice, body language, and even the atmosphere of the room can give you insights into what’s really going on. At CAAFP, the discussions felt richer, and the takeaways were more impactful because I could engage fully with the speakers, the facilitators, and the attendees. It’s these in-person experiences that allow you to truly understand the challenges and opportunities in our industry.

The Power of Community and Representation

CAAFP wasn’t just about professional development — it was also a celebration of the African American community within our industry. Being surrounded by so many talented professionals who share similar experiences and challenges was incredibly inspiring. It reinforced the importance of representation and the role we all play in supporting one another. You just don’t get that same sense of community and solidarity through a screen.

In-Person Events Are an Investment in Your Growth

Attending conferences like CAAFP is an investment — not just in your business, but in yourself. The relationships you build, the knowledge you gain, and the inspiration you take away are all part of that investment. Sure, it’s easier to stay at home and save on both time and money, but the return on showing up in person is immeasurable. You leave with more than just notes; you leave with connections, ideas, and a renewed sense of purpose.

In a world that’s more connected than ever before, it’s easy to think that virtual meetings can replace in-person interactions. But after last week, I’m reminded that there’s no substitute for the real thing.

So, the next time you have the chance to attend an event in person—take it. You never know what connections you’ll make, what ideas will come to life, or how it might just change the course of your business (and maybe even your life). Which begs the question...what conferences do YOU have on your agenda for the rest of 2024 and into 2025?

Look forward to seeing you IRL soon!

Kristin

P.S. - A HUGE shout out to Padric Scott for totally crushing his session on the nuances of working with professional athletes, and to Lindsey Lewis, MBA, ChFC?, CFP? and Lenox Advisors for hosting a wonderful women's session (I had fun serving as a mentor for the session...great questions & such good engagement!).

Had a blast seeing & hanging with everyone: Genie McGee Dr. Nicole Garner Scott Christopher Campbell Lemond Ponton Alanah Phillips, MBA Shelby Nicholl RENISHA JACKSON-RUCKER, QPFC Peavy Holmes Kellani Lettsome Dorothy Afua Bota