Since I began blogging, I have heard from numerous people how attending a trade show or conference can really take your blog to the next level.
There were a couple of conferences in 2007 that I had my eye on but the logistics did not work out, thus I made a goal for myself to attend my first blogging conference this year.
Goal Accomplished!
Well, technically I have yet to actually accomplish the goal but I have secured my seat at SOBCon08 – Biz School for Bloggers.
SOBCon, founded by Liz Strauss, will be taking place May 2-4 in Chicago. This event is limited to roughly 250+ attendees in an effort to allow for more hands-on learning with the impressive list of speakers, which I will mention in a moment.
While discussing the tax implications of blogging, I mentioned the idea of formalizing a business to encompass all of my blogs. With SOBCon, I hope to learn more about the business of blogging and the ability to work in a mastermind team to discuss and apply the lessons presented is very exciting.
As I mentioned, there are quite a few well-known individuals presenting at SOBCon08, including:
- Anita Bruzzese on online reputation management
- Brian Clark on online business models that work
- Lorelle VanFossen on focusing your business to get noticed
- Chris Garrett on managing the editorial
- Chris Brogan on social media choices that produce
- Dave Bullock on sales models that convert
- Liz Strauss on how to build an irresistible offer
- Wendy Piersall on success management
To be honest, I have to admit that I am somewhat nervous to attend an event like this as I feel like I might not be prepared to fully take advantage of the situation.
However, I think this will be a great opportunity to network with an outstanding group of people – which is what many say is the true value of these events – and create an actionable plan to take my blogging business to the next level.
If you will be attending SOBCon08, give me a holler!
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Derek,
No worries, by the end of Friday night you’ll know everyone on a first name basis. You’ll be just another blogger in a group of bloggers who can’t quit talking about why we came together. 🙂
Liz, thanks for stopping by!
I’m very much looking forward to it and I’ll be doing my best to be prepared.
Cool idea, I wish I was at the point where I felt comfortable attending a conference like that. Maybe next year.
Look forward to meeting you there, Derek!
Look forward to your report after the conference. I’m still poking around for a ‘feasible’ business model for a blog…
@Matt :: To be honest I am not sure I am comfortable attending a conference as I tend to be a quiet person until I really know people. We’ll see what happens!
@Easton :: Likewise, should be a fun time!
@Ling :: Now I am in the market for a laptop that I can take with me to the conference so I can take great notes and blog about it. 🙂
I have never attended any trade show regarding blogs,I would definitely like to attend any seminar or trade show which can help us improve our blogging.
Thats a great step forward. Hope to get to make friends with a lot of other bloggers.
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Looks like a great time Derek. Unfortunately I’m busy that weekend. Would love to attend though.
Have fun!
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Won’t be attending. Hopefully you can make some post on the event here.
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Such seminar will really take you to another level. More power to you!
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