Over the years I’ve attended many internet marketing and e-commerce related events and have learned a lot by networking with others during these opportunities. The great thing about attending industry-specific conferences and expos is that they expose you to a very targeted, tight-knit group of individuals who have the same passion for the event topic as you do. You’re able to share theories and engage in conversations you otherwise would never have access to. And, if you’re so inclined, you can let loose and party a little with like-minded people while you’re there.
While I don’t recommend attending entire conferences more than once (after your first time it’s easy to distinguish between the meetings that you may learn something at vs. the fluff sessions), I think it’s very important to stay on top of what’s next and seize new emerging markets in their earliest stages, so conferences and training are a great way to do exactly that. Look over the event planner for the event nearest you before booking to alleviate any unneccessary spending. Any sessions that don’t deliver at least a little bit of knowledge or provoke great panel/audience discussions are simply not worth the investment.
As far as associations go, I’m a current member of the Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization (SEMPO), the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, the Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau, and a current U.S. Patent and Trademark holder. I hold three Microsoft certifications: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Professional + Internet (MCP+I), and Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), as well as Brainbench Master Certifications in Windows NT 4, 2000 and XP. I’m also forming a group for internet marketing professionals located in Arizona which will be known as the Arizona Search Engine Marketing association (AZSEM). Once launched I will offer more information and provide the URL. Coming soon…