After a long-awaited pause, we are all excited to safely return to in person events and conferences. It is no shock that meeting in person returns a higher ROI than virtual meetings. The ability to have face to face conversations and move fluidly throughout a room, creates invaluable experiences and human connections. Bringing[KK1] innovative minds into a physical space fosters creativity, groundbreaking new ideas, and motivates intellectuals in ways virtual events and meetings cannot.
Here are 5 reasons you should be looking forward to returning to in person events:
1. Reestablishing Connections
Being virtual for over a year and a half has created roadblocks when it comes to expanding a network. Expanding an online network can be done, however attending a conference with hundreds of like-minded individuals in the same place inevitably yields a higher ROI. While sitting in front of a computer, you cannot recognize an old colleague from across the room or accidentally bump into a former client while waiting to place your coffee order. Too often reconnecting with past business associates gets bumped to the bottom of a to-do list. In person events gives you the opportunity to bring an item to the top of your to-do list, say hello, and catch up.
2. Learn how the industry has changed and evolved
It is no secret every industry has altered in many ways [KK2] during the past several months. The mortgage industry is no exception. Attending conferences will give you the opportunity to sit in on classes, seminars, and panels where the hot topics will be “What’s New,” “How Have We Changed,” “Where is the Industry Going.” In addition to these sanctioned presentations, you will be able to share ideas with other attendees on what he/she has found to work and does not work. Learning from peers is more beneficial and comprehensive in the long run.
3. Increase brand recognition
When you attend an in-person event, embody your brand. Whether you are tabling, speaking, or a guest to the conference, find a way to show off your brand. People walking in the halls will subconsciously begin to recognize your company. Furthermore, if you take gifts for other attendees, they will be carrying your brand for the rest of the event – a constant reminder of the connection they made with your company.
4. Find value in in person meetings
You can’t just show up. Meeting preparation is key to really maximizing your conference investments, virtual and in person. If you take the time to make meaningful connections and dedicate your attention to personal meetings, you will get something out of it. It may be a new client, a resource, a partner, or even an ear to listen. Find at least one token of value in every meeting you have and figure out how that connection benefits you, the other person, or each of you together as a team. We all want the mortgage industry to thrive, and we are only going to do that together.
5. Reinvigorate your passion for the industry
Being in the ambiance of a conference resets your innovation, motivation, and passion for your work. Let yourself ride the wave of excitement at these events. It will reignite your drive and lay the foundation for out of the box new ideas. Events are made to bring life to industries, make sure you allow it to happen for you, those around you, and the mortgage industry.
At BlackFin Group, we are excited to announce our attendance at some of the nation’s top mortgage industry events. We attended CMLA and will be speaking (Keith Kemph) at ACUMA in Washington, D.C., and attending NAMMBA and MBA. We are excited to establish connections with everyone in the industry and continue to support each other’s success. If you wish to set up a meeting with us at any of these events, please feel free to reach out to your contact directly or send us an email at info@blackfin-group.com. We look forward to seeing you all.