How advisors can get the most out of industry conferences

March 11, 2021 by Kelton Corcoran

How advisors can get the most out of industry conferences by Advicent

About the author

Kelton Corcoran

Senior content marketing specialist

Kelton Corcoran is a senior content marketing specialist at NaviPlan, the financial planning technology provider of choice for more than 140,000 financial professionals.

On the latest episode of The Planning Desk podcast, Anthony Stich and Tom Burmeister dove into the 2021 FinTech conference slate – which is set to feature several in-person events in the back-half of the year. For some advisors, deciding to attend these conferences is a much more complicated decision than in years past. With vaccinations just beginning to roll out, conference organizers have been keen on ensuring the safety of attendees and many have even implemented a very simple refund process. Still, advisors may wonder if the ROI of an in-person event is worth getting back out on the road.

Whether you are an advisor eagerly awaiting the return of industry conferences or looking to attend an event further down the road, here are three tips to ensure you maximize the value from an in-person industry event.


 

Start with your goals

Before selecting an event to attend, take a step back and assess the goals you have set forth for yourself, your practice, and your clients. While every conference will offer a variety of speakers, sessions, and topics, each has a unique theme in mind. By previewing the content that an event has scheduled, you will be in a better place to maximize your value while attending and leave with some key takeaways.

Be active

While every conference is busy and has a lot to offer, it is important to remember to be active in searching for value. Whether it be planning out the specific sessions you want to attend on each day or taking advantage of networking opportunities – these primary benefits to in-person events will only be realized to their full potential if you are actively seeking them out. As Tom mentions, “the ROI is not going to come to you.”

Take time for yourself

It can be easy to get swept up in all of the busyness of a conference but taking some time to unwind and process the information you are taking in is more than beneficial. Traveling to in-person events helps you get away from the daily process of being an advisor and think big picture – all while recharging in a fun destination.

Interested in what conferences Tony and Tom say advisors should have their eye on in 2021? Check out the full episode of The Planning Desk here.