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It’s fInancial advisor conference season, with many available options to participate in industry learning. Financial advisor conferences aren’t just about earning CE credits—they’re an opportunity to elevate your business and your network.
I will be heading out to Minneapolis next week to lead a business development session at XYPN Live (message me if you’re going!), and my Conference Game Plan is shaping up nicely.
If you’re looking to boost your conference ROI, then this issue of Your RIA - Version 2.0 is for you. Below I’ve outlined six of my favorite strategies to get the most out of conference attendance:
1. Set clear goals
Outline what you want to achieve—whether it’s learning about a specialized topic, finding new tech solutions, or meeting specific people. Defining your objectives helps keep your time focused and productive. Review the agenda thoroughly beforehand so you can craft an initial game plan.
2. Prioritize networking
It can be easy to rush out after sessions or hang in your room in the evening, especially if you’re more introverted. Yet, some of the best conference value comes from casual conversations during breaks or social events. Aim to connect with a few new people each day. You never know which relationships might lead to future collaborations or insights.
3. Attend practice management sessions
While CE sessions are important, don’t forget to include practice management sessions on your agenda. These sessions can provide valuable insights into how to attract new clients, retain existing ones, and grow your business. You may learn new marketing strategies, client communication improvements, or tips to run your business more efficiently.
If you’re attending XYPN, I invite you to join the learning at my session on Thursday:
4. Make learning actionable
Instead of letting new ideas collect dust, choose a few takeaways to implement. Write down concrete next steps after each session, noting This makes it easier to put ideas into practice when you look back over your notes. Before you return to the office, pick one action to take in the next 7 days, no matter how small.
5. Follow-up promptly
A quick follow-up message to someone you met can turn a casual chat into a meaningful connection. Personalize it by mentioning specifics from your conversation, and consider setting up a follow-up call to deepen the relationship. If you connect on Linkedin, mention how you met in the message (so you both remember later!).
6. Stay open to surprises
Some of the most valuable moments happen outside of planned sessions. Be open to attending different types of talks or engaging in social activities that are out of your comfort zone. Mixing things up can lead to unexpected outcomes and opportunities.
By viewing conferences as more than just a box to check for CE credits, you can gain a wealth of knowledge, new connections, and actionable strategies. With a thoughtful approach, these events can offer a significant return on investment, contributing to both professional and personal fulfillment.
Related: Heart-First Approach: How Advisors Can Reach Their Full Potential