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Invest in Your Future
Smart professionals know that education continues after college. In order to stay on top of your career and ahead of the competition you have to make learning an ongoing process. Educational programs, which range between a half day to a week or longer, are the preferred means of continuing your education. They give the professional an advantage because they are short, practical and up-to-the minute.
Unlike colleges, seminars do not require a large amount of money or time. And unlike reading books and journals, seminars emphasize the information and skills you need. In many cases, you can practice your new skills with exercises the instructor provides. The strength and high-energy environment of a seminar not only helps you to learn, but it can be a lot of fun.
At a seminar, you will get a good perspective on how you are doing in your career. Nothing beats a day away from your desk for a closer look at how well you are achieving your goals! Making contacts is the best advantage of seminars. Where better to meet people just like you, who are successful and growing? At your next seminar you may find someone with an answer to your perplexing problem.
As you can see, seminars are worth your time. The concepts outlined in this page will help you to get the most out of your next seminar.
Getting the Most out of a Seminar
Request Attendance
Usually there is no out-of-pocket expenses to the individual attending a seminar. Most
organizations will pay for their employee's registration (this is an investment for them too!).
It isn't always easy taking the time out of your busy schedule and getting permission to spend
some of your company's training budget. While simple verbal requests are sometimes all it takes,
a written request is often better. When making such requests to your boss consider outlining
the features of the seminar. If you have received a brochure outlining the program, include it,
highlighting the features that will benefit you and the company. This allows your boss to see
exactly what they are getting for their money.
Determine Your Goals
Take the time to determine what your goals are and then put them into writing. Be sure to
ask yourself these questions, "Why did I register for this seminar?" and "What do I expect to
achieve?" Be sure to determine any questions you would like answered. Bring your goals with
you to the seminar. This will help you determine if all your needs have been met, and if not,
then you can ask questions to clarify any unanswered issues you may have.
Plan Ahead
Arrive early to register, meet a few people and get seated. If you are driving be sure to get
directions the day before and allow enough driving time. Come prepared with paper, writing
utensils and a sweater or jacket...you can never predict the temperature in the meeting rooms!
Network
Take advantage of the seminar to expand your network of contacts. Sit next to someone you do
not know. You will realize that every registrant has an expertise of their own. And don't
forget your business cards!
Take Action
Now is the opportunity to make sure all your goals are met. Ask questions and make
contributions. Participate in exercises the instructor has provided. This is the purpose of
attending a seminar. If you had just wanted information, you could have read a book. If you
had wanted a lecture, you could have listened to an audio tape. You will benefit much more by
participating in the game rather than by sitting on the sidelines.
Get Involved
Taking notes will allow you to concentrate during the seminar and organize your thoughts.
Your notes will make a good reference to turn to in the future. Be sure not to write down what
the instructor is saying word for word. You will benefit more if you put it into your own words
and determine how you will use this information. When taking notes determine, "How can I use
this information in my job?" and "How can I integrate these ideas into my company?" Determine
the main objective of the seminar to justify its cost. (Rule of Thumb: The seminar should have
a payback in terms of savings or profits of five times the tuition fee). There are new ideas
to be learned...it is up to you to take the initiative!
Relate the Seminar to Your Job
If the instructor is talking about sales techniques, but you are not in sales, determine how
you may use this information on the job to be more persuasive. In other words, do not settle
for "abstract" knowledge. With your goals foremost in your mind ask yourself, "How can I use
this information in my job?"
Make a Commitment
Following a seminar review your notes and write down the specific things you intend to do
differently or better. Be specific when writing down new actions. Instead of writing, "Improve
communication with my staff," quantify your action by writing, "Start having a Monday morning
staff briefing." Specify when you will implement your new action.
Compose a "Dear Boss" Letter
Be sure to send a thank you letter to your supervisor or company if they sent you to the
seminar (this will make a great impression!). Include an outline of what you learned and
how you plan to implement it. Even if you paid your own way, send the report. This will show
how committed you are to your own professional growth.
Here is an example of a "Dear Boss" letter.
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