As we gear up for the Applied Net Conference, our latest Insurance Hacks webinar brought together Brad Ruben of Archway Computer and SueAnn Prim, an industry veteran with deep expertise in insurance and technology. The focus? How to make the most of your time at this major industry event.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned conference-goer, this recap will help you prepare, navigate, and maximize the opportunities at Applied Net 2024.
1. Why Attend Applied Net?
Before diving into the tips, it’s important to understand why the Applied Net Conference is a must-attend event for those in the insurance industry. The conference offers unparalleled opportunities to network, learn from industry experts, and explore the latest in insurance technology.
Archway Computer’s Tip: If you haven’t already registered, now is the time! Make sure your accommodations are booked, ideally at the main hotel, the Gaylord Opryland Resort, or nearby overflow hotels. Consider reaching out to your Applied rep for help securing a room if needed.
2. Pre-Conference Preparation: Setting Yourself Up for Success
SueAnn shared a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare for the conference:
- Review the Agenda: Go through the conference agenda thoroughly. Mark sessions with a ‘Yes,’ ‘No,’ or ‘Maybe,’ and prioritize based on your goals. If attending with a team, coordinate to cover more ground by attending different sessions.
Tip from SueAnn: “Review the agenda and set your goals early. Knowing what you want to achieve will guide your entire conference experience.”
- Set Your Goals: Determine what you want to achieve at the conference. Whether it’s networking, learning about new technologies, or meeting specific vendors, having clear goals will guide your experience.
- Download the Conference App: The Applied Net app is your best friend at the conference. It provides updates on sessions, allows you to connect with other attendees, and helps you navigate the event.
Archway Computer’s Tip: Make sure to fill out your profile on the conference app, but consider hiding your information from vendors if you prefer not to be contacted.
3. Day-of Tips: Navigating the Conference Like a Pro
On the day of the conference, a few key strategies will help you stay organized and make the most of your experience:
- Arrive Early: Get to your sessions early to secure a good seat, especially for popular topics. Networking often happens before and after sessions, so being early gives you more opportunities to connect with peers.
Tip from Brad: “Some of the best networking happens before the sessions even start. Arrive early, grab a good seat, and strike up a conversation.”
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: Conferences can be exhausting. Bring a water bottle and snacks to keep your energy up. Applied provides breakfast, but it’s usually carb-heavy, so consider eating a protein-rich meal beforehand.
- Network, Network, Network: Don’t be shy about introducing yourself to others. If you’re attending alone, find a conference buddy early on. Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of the conference, so take full advantage.
Archway Computer’s Tip: Be mindful of overbooking your schedule. Allow for some downtime to process what you’ve learned and recharge.
4. The Exhibit Hall: Making the Most of Vendor Interactions
The exhibit hall is a treasure trove of new products and technologies, but it can also be overwhelming. Here’s how to navigate it effectively:
- Map Out Your Plan: Use the exhibit hall map to prioritize which vendors you want to visit. If you have specific questions or want to see a particular demo, consider booking an appointment with the vendor in advance.
- Use Break Times Wisely: Lunch breaks are a great time to visit vendors without the crowd. This gives you more one-on-one time with exhibitors and allows you to gather the information you need.
Archway Computer’s Tip: Be aware of the exhibitor badge colors—they can give you a clue about who’s a vendor and who’s an attendee.
5. Post-Conference Follow-Up: Don’t Let the Experience End When You Leave
After the conference, it’s crucial to follow up on the connections and knowledge you gained:
- Send Thank You Notes: Whether it’s a quick email or a LinkedIn message, following up with people you met at the conference helps solidify those connections.
- Schedule Debrief Sessions: Before you return to the daily grind, schedule debrief sessions with your team to share what you learned and plan how to implement new ideas.
Tip from SueAnn: “The value of the conference isn’t just in attending—it’s in how you apply what you’ve learned once you’re back in the office.”
Archway Computer’s Tip: Don’t wait too long to schedule follow-ups. The sooner you connect with your new contacts and review what you’ve learned, the more likely you are to retain and apply the information.
Final Thoughts
The Applied Net Conference is an incredible opportunity to advance your knowledge, network with industry peers, and discover the latest tools to help your agency grow. With the right preparation and a strategic approach, you can make the most of this event.
Ready to meet us at Applied Net? RSVP to our pre-conference party and get ready to kick off the event with a bang! We’ll be hosting a cocktail hour on Monday, September 9th, at 7 PM at The Falls Lounge at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, featuring hangover kits and some fantastic giveaways, including a $3,000 website redesign. Don’t miss it!