Is this how you walk through the exhibit hall at a legal conference? Like you're wearing a blindfold, so you won't have to see the sponsors?
Here's an idea to help grow your law firm: Stop doing that! Open your eyes and seize the opportunity to learn something new!
Did you know that some of the most valuable education can be had on the exhibit floor?
The next time you walk through the exhibit hall to grab your coffee, soda or snack break, do yourself a favor and look around. Some of the brightest experts in the business of law are staffing those booths, bringing ideas and insight you won't find in the lecture hall. Visit with them and you'll learn about new technologies, strategies, services and even business opportunities. The education they offer is free, usually quite succinct, and often cutting-edge.
Think about it -- the people who staff these booths work with literally hundreds if not thousands of attorneys from across the country. Their knowledge of challenges, secrets of success and trends is expansive.
Here's a great game plan: Take a look at the list of sponsors, which is usually available in your welcome kit. Don't just visit those from whom you might purchase -- expand your learning and find out what these subject-matter experts know.
And remember -- those wonderful receptions and breakfast buffets frequently are paid for by the hard-earned dollars of your sponsors. The least you can do is be friendly to them. I have spent countless hours visiting with other sponsors and can attest that they don't bite, are almost always extremely knowledgeable and sincere, and truly there to help and serve YOU. Walking past and refusing to make eye contact, as if you're wearing a blindfold, means you have no chance to learn something new, meet someone new, or even be a good ambassador for your association or your profession.
Be nice. Smile. Ask a question. Chances are you'll learn something valuable and maybe even make a new friend!