Can't Miss
In a comment to my post about Saturday sessions, Zachary Wilson, who I guess will be attending his first annual meeting this year, asked what the “can’t miss” sessions would be. Ultimately, that’s a pretty subjective question, and there’s SO much content at this meeting that there are probably sessions you shouldn’t miss but you will, because you’re at other great sessions. That being said, here’s a high-level response, and I invite the other Boston bloggers to share perspectives.
First of all, be aware that the plenary sessions are always giving you the cream of the crop in terms of speakers. We’ve got Jim Collins, for goodness sake, and he’s talking about a project done specifically for associations. I think that’s pretty special. Goodwin and Taylor are also best-selling authors. I usually find myself feeling quite fortunate to hear the general sessions.
The other big point to make is that after the general sessions, there are still the thought leader super sessions. These speakers are also very high-caliber, national-level speakers—and you have many to choose from! Again, I think at this conference the “problem” will be too many good choices. As an example, I’ve read the books by Carroll and Reichheld (and commented a bit about them on this blog), but they are both speaking at the same time!
And then you have all the concurrent sessions. Here the content really drives my choices. Of course, there are nearly 30 sessions in each time slot, so it will take some studying to figure out which ones to choose. It definitely helps to have a plan.
Comments
Jamie, I agree with the wonderful conundrum that you describe. It's almost like the scrumptious Sunday brunch at the Fairmont Copley Plaza -- too many enticing, tasty choices -- and yet we dig in and come away filled and delighted.
Must Attends -- yes, you are right, the General Sessions really are must attends -- definitely cutting edge, inspiring, and informing. Remember Gilmore & Pine "The Experience Economy" where "all work is theatre and every business is a stage" -- you will find the general Sessions definitely top drawer work, theatre, and experientially expanding our association world.
Dilemma -- True -- the Thought Leader sessions will certainly force hard choices. That being said -- I find you almost can't go wrong. These sessions cause one to think, re-think, and think again about critical association and related issues and opportunities.
Learning Labs -- I also agree that content of interest generally drives attendance at these sessions. One tip -- I find it helpful to review the program to date and map out key sessions of interest before you get to the conference. Then once you see the final program -- you can adjust as needed. At least -- you have a game plan to get started.
See all in Bean Town.
Posted by: Amanda Batson | August 14, 2006 10:54 AM
Thanks Jamie and Amanda. That was a very good summary and it helped me a great deal.
Posted by: Zachary Wilson | August 15, 2006 12:49 PM