Why you need to attend networking conferences now

We are all looking for our path in life but especially our career. Getting to know others already in the career we are striving for will give you clarity and confirmation that it is right for you. You could try contacting a company to look into job shadowing but that is leaving the power over your career in their hands.
The other option is start the process by attending networking conferences in the field you want to be in. By doing so you can gain a lot of connections that will give you more control over your career. In taking control you also gain so many other things by taking the steps to immerse yourself in the industry.

Connected to like minded people

Creating a tribe of people who get you and what you do will be the most rewarding thing you can do. As you go through your career and life milestones they will always be there to talk to. Making these connections will help you when you feel like friends and family just don’t get it. With your tribe you know you will always be understood (Shout out to Lu Ann, Nicole , and Koori).

Inspire yourself

Motivation comes and goes, find it can be often a struggle on its own. Feeding your mind with inspirational talks and meet new people who spark your imagination and next steps. At Blog Podium inspiration is everywhere, but Tiffany Pratt took the cake. The brightness of her hair and how she conveyed her truth through her keynote speech. Everything was beyond inspirational. To make things even better I sat with Sabrina Smelko and Shannon Lee Simmons (New School of Finance), who were inspirational in our conversations and also their own presentations. 

Stay connected to niche updates

Staying in the know is very valuable, at times information at networking conferences is so new it is not online yet. Staying a bit ahead of the game helps you make decisions and can help in interviews to demonstrate your knowledge. Blog Podium this year was all about earning money through your blog in an array of methods. Shannon educated us on finances which was very new for me and on the other side was Alyssa Garrison (Random Acts of Pastel) who taught us the art of Instagram photography.

Discover Opportunities

Staying in front of the people whom you want to work with will mean opportunities latter on. Better yet ask for their business card and stay in contact. The people you know are always your best asset if you know when to contact them for that next step, job shadowing or even interview preparation. Be considerate of what is going on in their life, in turn the same respect will be returned to you. Brand Speed Networking at Blog Podium was filled with chances to create new opportunities for your blog. As stressful as it is pitching or asking for help, it is well worth it in the end.

You can start attending networking conferences at any point in your life but the best time is now. Do a search for your niche or industry and plan to attend. You will thank yourself for taking the time to invest in yourself and your future.
What industry or niche are you working towards? Share in the comments below,tweet or send an IG message.