What to Expect at Your First Blog Conference

 

What to expect at your first blog conference via http://www.thegoodmama.org

I just attended my first blog conference, The Bloggy Boot Camp’s Women Get Social, in Philadelphia this past weekend.

As a brand spanking new blogger, it was an incredible experience (Read about Why I Started Blogging).

I came out feeling motivated, inspired, and at the same time slightly overwhelmed.

I was a small fish in a sea of amazing women. These women, I have found, are not merely your average mommy bloggers typing away for a fun hobby. Instead, they are published authors, accomplished photographers, social media superstars and breadwinners in their families.

Yes, mommy bloggers are an interesting group.

It may appear backwards for bloggers to encourage and support their fellow blogger (i.e. competition). Yet, they gladly share their secrets to gaining more followers and writing the perfect sponsored post.

In fact, the SITS girls website is a whole site dedicated to helping bloggers grow their audience!

I guess bloggers have realized that we’re stronger working together than working apart.

Today is The Good Mama’s 2 month blogiversary. To this date, I’ve had so much fun learning all I can about the blogging world.

Bloggy Boot Camp only increased my enthusiasm.

So, for those who have not yet attended a blog conference, here’s what to expect.

What to expect at your first blog conference via http://www.thegoodmama.org

  • Traffic: There’s nothing like driving into center city Philadelphia to remind me what I DON’T miss about city living (Read about our recent move to the suburbs at 5 Ways to Make Moving Easier With Baby). With the seemingly never-ending construction going on at City Hall, and the teeny-tiny garage parking (I guess I’m already spoiled with my new driveway), it doesn’t make it a fun commute. So, whether you are staying over (fun!), driving in, or taking the train, plan to give yourself some extra time for travel. While it’s not the end of the world if you happen to be late (the whole room will not stop and turn and stare you down if you walk in late), it’s really nice to get there early to meet other bloggers and exchange information.
  • Friendly Faces: Like I mentioned before, I was able to meet so many incredible women (and one husband!). Your first blogging conference is NOT a time to be shy. Luckily, at the Women Get Social Bloggy Boot Camp they assign tables to force attendees out of their comfort zone and meet new people. This strategy was perfect for a new blogger like me not knowing anyone beforehand. I found it best to put a smile on my face and jump right in introducing myself to anyone I could. There were also sponsors ready to talk with bloggers face to face in the hopes of finding the right blogger to promote their products.

What to Expect at Your First Blog Conference via http://www.thegoodmama.org

  • Business Cards: Don’t forget business cards! You’ll meet so many people there’s no way you’ll remember everyone’s information. You also want people to be able to remember you. I really liked the business cards that had faces on them so I could put a name to a face. You can get great business cards from Moo.com.
  • Knowledgeable Speakers: You will want to have a notebook or laptop with you to take notes. I felt like I was back in school with all the notes I took (I’m a little odd in the fact that I really enjoy taking notes). Seriously though, the speakers were great. Their talks ranged from taking eye-catching photos and managing social media pages to the business of blogging and blogging tax law. Learn more about the speakers at Bloggy Boot Camp.
  • Unpredictable room temperature: Even though this past weekend was the absolute grossest, most-humid it has been in Philly all summer, the conference room still managed to feel like an icebox. Don’t forget to pack layers!
  • Comfy shoes: There was definitely some standing and walking around at the conference. The last thing you need is sore feet holding you back. I would say the overall style from the attendees was cute, but casual.

What to Expect at Your First Blog Conference

Have you ever attended a blog conference? What are some tips that you would give to someone attending one for the first time? Would you like to go to a blog conference? Let me know in the comment section below!

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