Networking at workshops is often where you will have the best chance of meeting people in the industry
As the workshop and conference season ramps up for 2013-2014, many producers find it difficult to make time to attend. The information and knowledge shared at such events, however, can be a boon to your business and to your customers.
“The opportunity to network with people in your industry, grow your knowledge, stay abreast of changes in the industry, and perhaps even find inspiration can be invaluable,” says Dustin Morton, commercial horticulture specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. “Networking at workshops is often where you will get the biggest bang for your buck in terms of meeting people in the industry. These events can also be great places for troubleshooting common problems with other growers or brainstorming new ideas. Alternatively, these are fantastic places to mentor the next generation of producers and to share your own wealth of knowledge.”
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Conference seminars provide a convenient place to pick up the latest research in a distilled-down format from lead investigators in their field. Topics are often wide ranging from the latest technology to marketing and soft skills. Keep in mind that one of the best ways to retain something is to pass it on. Taking this information back to your employees is a surefire way to ensure that you won’t forget it any time soon.
“The trade shows that often accompany conferences can be excellent places to look for the latest technology as well as another place to stay on top of trends in consumer demand,” says Morton. “Vendors often provide discounts to trade show-goers and this may be an appropriate place to secure inventory for the upcoming season. Furthermore, this may be the venue to approach companies with which you deal and provide them with feedback.
“Workshops can be excellent sources of inspiration. With exposure to so many heavy hitters in the industry, workshops can be the perfect chance to ask them how they got to where they are and what keeps them motivated. Additionally, there are often seminars devoted to dealing with burnout and re-engaging with your work. These segments may provide techniques to avoid burnout in the future and may allow you to connect with people who feel similarly.”
Given the opportunity for networking, education, keeping up with the industry and rejuvenating yourself, it is easy to see how valuable workshops can be. As in life, so much of what you get back is how much you’re willing to put in. If you go excited and willing to learn, your business and your personal growth will skyrocket.
