10 Tips For Attending a Genealogy Conference

Since I’m gearing up for the FGS 2011 Conference that is now a month away, I have conference on the brain.  On Monday, I posted Reasons for Attending Genealogy Conferences and today I bring you tips for attending.

1. Choose your sessions wisely.  Pick topics that will enhance your knowledge or that pique your curiosity.  While choosing topics you already know a good deal about isn’t a bad thing (hey, we can all use a refresher), but if you could be the presenter for the topic, use this opportunity to learn something new.
2. Arrive early for those sessions!  Venues have strict codes they have to follow regarding room occupancy.  Once it’s full, it’s FULL!
3. Bring business or “business” cards.  I realize not all genealogists who attend conferences are professionals, hence the reason one instance of the word business is in quotes.  In my opinion, all genealogists (professional or not) should have a card that can be handed out when attending conferences (or visiting libraries, archives, etc.).  The “business” card would list your name and contact information; mine also includes a listing of my high-priority surnames on the back.  See my post Genealogy Business Card for more information and an example.
4. Collect business or “business” cards.  And be sure to write your own notes on the back like “could be linked to Garrison line” or “specializes in colonial Connecticut research.”
5. Use your down time to visit the exhibit hall.  This is your chance to explore vendor products and services firsthand.  And don’t just stop by a table and pick up everything; say hello and engage in small talk…you never know when that contact will come in handy.
6. Network!  This is probably one of the most important things about attending any type of conference, but for genealogists, it’s also very personal.  While you’ll want to network with professional genealogists and vendors, it’s just as important to converse with everyone you run into…one of those people could hold the key you’ve been looking for to unlock that brick wall.
7. Attend social events.  Although many people view social events (meals, special events, etc.) as networking opportunities, they also allow you to kick back and relax a bit from all the hustle and bustle of the conference.
8. Dress comfortably.  Temperature control always seems to be an issue in large venues, so be prepared by dressing in layers.  And don’t forget comfy shoes!
9. Sit by people you don’t know.  How can you meet new people when you hang out with your comfort group?  View this is a learning and networking opportunity.
10. Bring your tool kit.  Be sure you have pens/pencils, highlighters, paper/notepad, laptop, and camera.

There are plenty of other tips out there, but for me, these are the big ones.  Feel free to post your own conference attendance tips in the comments of this post.