10 THE CAAR COMMUNICATOR Conventions and conferences play a pivotal role in professional growth. This is particularly true for those in the early stages of their careers or those undergoing career transitions. Experts in career development emphasize the importance of leveraging these gatherings to better propel your career forward. Conferences and conventions provide a platform to share knowledge, learn from industry leaders, and expand professional networks. Especially during career transitions, these events serve as essential networking hubs, presenting opportunities to connect with peers and explore new job prospects. Attending a conference or convention provides you with the opportunity to understand the core discussions within your field and to build connections within the industry. With so many working remotely or hybrid now, connecting with peers in your industry could be more important than ever. Planning your route is crucial for making the most of these events. Before attending, review the conference program to identify sessions and speakers of interest. This helps in creating a personalized schedule that aligns with your career goals. However, be flexible enough to allow for spontaneous interactions, which are often as valuable as the planned sessions. Sharing your knowledge through different formats, such as participating in workshops, can also be highly rewarding. These contributions enhance your visibility and establish your expertise among peers. Also, getting involved in the convention’s organization, either as part of the organizing committee or moderating panels or helping with logistics, can deepen your connections and make networking more authentic and less daunting. After the conference, following up with new contacts and continuing the dialogue through social media platforms or virtual meetups to solidify relationships and open doors to future opportunities. By using conventions as part of your professional development, you can enhance your career prospects, gain insights into your field, and build a robust professional network. HUMAN RESOURCES annebel146 - stock.adobe.com MAXIMIZE CAREER GROWTH AT PROFESSIONAL EVENTS Strategies to Leverage Conferences and Conventions to Advance your Career. Kathryn Doan, AgCareers.com
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