If you know anything by now, you know I don’t tend to run in normal circles, no matter what I look like. So it stands to reason that I don’t do conferences as a normal, either. Maybe it’s the anxiety, maybe it’s my brain, who knows, but I just don’t seem to fit a typical conference go-er. I like doing it my way, and it works- I come back energized refreshed, and ready to tackle new things and ideas. It’s completely the point of a conference to me. How do I do it?
ALSC is having Speed Dating.The New Membership Round Table is having a a social. YALSA’s having a Happy Hour. GLBT-RT is having a Social. Great places to meet people who share your passion, and at the most, you’re out a couple of hours of time at a great place!
Everyone always says wear your normal work clothes- I wear what I’m comfortable in, which is my t-shirts and jeans, and no one seems to mind. I’ve also got spare batteries for my smart phone because I can never find a charger, and I pack a surge protector as That Guy and I have more gadgets than the hotel room has outlets, and running out the door at 6 a.m. for a session with this sign: is a doomed day.
What are your tips for making conferences successful for you?
A note from Karen: If you see Christie at Midwinter, please take a moment and say hi. Also, remind her she is not allowed to come back home unless she has an ARC of Requiem by Lauren Oliver for Karen. Just saying.
Thanks for the post, Christie. Now I've seen it, I might do the YALSA happy hour to meet librarians for Library Lions interviews.
Janet
Awesome tips! I've been to ALA Midwinter twice now and I really wish I had read your advice and tricks before I went that first time! Invaluable. One thing I learned the hard way is wear sneakers! No one seems to mind and wearing those cute but uncomfortable shoes will kill your feet (and your mood).
Have a great conference and thanks again! 🙂