Conferences provide us with networking opportunities… opportunities to connect with new people, to deepen relationships with people we already know, to learn, and to unplug from the day-to-day business and plug into a more strategic mindset. So it makes sense to evaluate them in Connect the Dots. Enjoy!

THE POWER OF CONFERENCES: In my telecommunications days, I didn’t experience conferences much. Industry events yes, conferences no. Maybe that was my own lack of awareness, but if so, it was an opportunity lost.

When is the last time you went to a conference in real life?

In 2005 I got involved in a network marketing business (keep reading… this is not a recruiting effort, I promise). The annual conference was only one month away from my start date, and I was unsure if I should attend.

My fellow consultants told me it was like a Tony Robbins event combined with an Oprah Winfrey show. They encouraged me to go. I scraped together the money for accommodation, booked my flights to the Gold Coast, and packed a special frock for the gala.

And I’m so glad I did.

The next 15 years of my life were significantly influenced by that one decision. Through the conference I saw the opportunity in the business. I saw the recognition for high achievers. I met the people who believed in the system. I became part of the tribe.

How do you experience the power of being part of a tribe?

Fast forward to 2011, when I joined a BNI chapter. Not long into that membership, we learned that there was a national conference being held in Sydney. I attended with quite a few members from my (admittedly already visionary) chapter.

Again, for me, the power of the conference was incredible. I could see how the system worked from a more strategic level. I met people who understood and successfully navigated the network. I was exposed to leaders and their insights. I created strong bonds and set bigger goals with my fellow members.

Last month, now as an Executive Director (franchise owner) in BNI, I had the privilege of being involved as one of the MCs for our 2022 National Conference. My personal core value of FUN was ever present. I intentionally brought the Tony Robbins and Oprah Winfrey vibe to the room. I treated everyone in the convention centre like a welcome house guest.

And we changed lives. The testimonials and feedback we've received continue to reinforce the power a conference can have on a person, a business, and a tribe.

What is the next conference available to you?

The power of a conference is intense. We create tribes. We develop leaders. We add to people’s stories. We educate. We inspire. We model successful behaviour. We grow. We have fun.

Vision, planning, execution, and follow up are key success factors.

How do YOU influence your customers, your clients, your partners, your suppliers in a major way? A way that will change their lives?

May I suggest you attend or organise a conference together?

I know you’ll see the power.

Recap - please share your experiences:

- When is the last time you went to a conference in real life?

- How do you experience the power of being part of a tribe?

- What is the next conference available to you?