Are traditional in-person conferences a thing of the past? That’s a big question, and no one really knows the answer. But one thing is for sure, they’re no longer your only option, especially for large-scale global conferences.
Thanks to technology, it’s now possible to access learning and networking opportunities that’ll help you be more effective and efficient in your role.
That’s why we’ve made Transform 22, our must-attend sales event, completely virtual. And it’ll be here before you know it.
On November 9, over 1,000 sales, marketing, and enablement professionals will gather worldwide for this interactive, engaging, and fun experience. Expect a mix of events and talks that will leave you energized and inspired, and your enablement strategy and solution supercharged for the future.
Transform 22 offers a lively mix of keynotes, on-demand breakout sessions and interactive opportunities. And it’s all completely free!
How to get the most out of Transform 22
Of course, attending a virtual conference from your home office, kitchen table, or sofa is undoubtedly different from being in a large conference hall surrounded by peers, freebies, and free-flowing champagne (we can dream, can’t we?). But if you are attending Transform 22 (or any other virtual conference), here are five tips to help you get the most out of it:
1. Make a game plan
A few days before the event, check out the final agenda to determine which speakers and sessions interest you most. Because attending virtual events usually means managing your regular workload and calls, so you might not be able to attend everything.
Once you know the sessions you want to attend, add them to your calendar, so you don’t end up double-booking these times.
Top tip: When putting together your schedule, check which sessions are only offered live or will be available on-demand.
2. Switch up your surroundings
Being in a conference center or hotel function room makes a change from the office. So why does virtual eventing have to be any different?
Consider switching up your surroundings to help get you in the right mindset for learning, and stop it feeling like “just another day in the (home) office.” For example, if you typically work from a desk in your home office, set up shop at your kitchen table. Or, if you usually work from your kitchen table, join the event from your couch.
3. Minimize distractions
When you’re attending a virtual conference, it’s tempting to multitask. For example, you might have the event playing in the background while you check emails and do other work.
But avoid the temptation to get the most out of a virtual event. It’s essential to focus on the content.
For starters, block off your calendar, so no one schedules meetings while you’re attending the event. Also, shut down your email and messaging apps to minimize distractions while you attend sessions. Finally, consider watching the conference in full-screen mode and taking notes with a pen and paper. That way, you won’t have to toggle between different windows on your computer to type your notes — and you’ll be less likely to get distracted.
4. Move your body
At in-person events, the agenda typically includes plenty of chances to stand up, stretch and take a quick break from learning. But at virtual events, it’s easy to feel confined to your chair.
Sitting in front of your computer all day can zap your energy and focus. So be sure to move your body periodically to refocus your attention. Taking a moment to stand and stretch every 30 minutes or take a quick walk around the block between sessions is a great way to wake you up and help you refocus. You might also try standing during a couple of sessions to help you stay alert.
5. Connect with other attendees
Virtual networking might seem impossible, as sitting on your sofa doesn’t feel like a natural setting for connecting. But that’s so true anymore.
Modern virtual events, like Transform 22, create numerous opportunities to connect with others, like our virtual round tables that connect attendees live to discuss topics that matter to them.
But even when they’re not built into the event, you can create them for yourself. Make sure you use any chat functionalities to participate in discussions. Or ensure that you’re following the event on social media to keep up with any updates or conversations happening in a broader context.
And if you know someone attending the conference, even in passing, schedule some with them after the event to discuss key learnings, etc. Rehashing the event can remind you of something you forgot or spark ideas to help you level up sales enablement at your organization.
Imagine better connections.
See a smarter, simpler future for sales at Showpad’s Transform 22.
Whether you’re in sales, marketing, or sales enablement, there’s something for you at Transform 22. We’ll cover the big issues facing the future of sales enablement, how to navigate change, where sales enablement is going, how to elevate customer experiences, and more. And hear from Showpad customers, including DuPont, Atlas Copco, Angela, and a fascinating talk from Melissa M. Proctor on her remarkable career and how she’s remained true to herself.
This year’s event is virtual, and it’s completely free. So what are you waiting for? Save your spot for Transform 2022 today.
