How to Prepare for a Successful UGM

June 3, 2019

How to Prepare for a Successful UGM

Making the Most of Your Conference Experience

Going to a conference can be intimidating, especially if you are the only person from your organization who is attending. If this is your first time attending UGM or you just want to get more out of this year, we've compiled some techniques to ensure you make the most of your conference experience.

Networking Tips and Tricks

1. Download the UGM 2019 App

The UGM 2019 App is the hub for all things UGM. Use this app to connect with other distributors before, during or after the conference. Access the agenda as well as view the schedule for presentations, labs and one on one sessions. You can also meet the entire Encompass team on the app. Each department has photos of its team members so you can put a face to the name and feel comfortable approaching someone you've worked with before but may not have met yet.

2. Put Yourself Out There

Be sure to attend the reception on night one and dinner on night two to mingle and take advantage of networking opportunities. Although a long day of information can push you towards solitude and room service, resist the urge to retire to your hotel room. Part of the UGM experience is socializing with other distributors in your network and the best place for this is at the reception and dinner.

3. Use a Unique Icebreaker

Instead of the traditional "So, what do you do?" use an icebreaker that will cultivate more organic conversation. Try something like "What's your favorite sessions so far?" or "Which vendor do you plan on getting in touch with at the Vendor Trade Show?" or "Did you attend last year?". These UGM specific ice breakers will give you more information on the new person you've begun chatting with as well as give you ideas on topics related to your operation that you might not have thought about.

4. When You're Ready to Move on, Step Away Gracefully

If a conversation has exhausted itself, don't feel obligated to stay and awkwardly drag it on. Bow out skillfully by saying "Excuse me, I just saw someone I need to connect with" or "It was nice meeting you, I'm going to grab another drink".

5. Be Sure to Log a Task

If you see something at UGM that you are interested in, don't let it get away from you. Be sure to log a task to our support team letting us know and after UGM is over, we will reach out and follow-up with you to share more information or help you take advantage of new features.

Above all, have no fear! If you walk up to someone and just start chatting, they will likely be cool with it. And just as any area of life, confidence is key. So be sure to reference these networking tips and tricks to feel more comfortable navigating the UGM landscape. After leaving this conference, you will walk away with new strategies to streamline your operation along with a wealth of memories from all of the new friends you've made.

We look forward to seeing you all next week!

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