Choosing the right corporate events for career growth
Attending work events can be a powerful way to improve and enhance your skills, expand your professional network, and stay ahead in your industry. However, with so many conferences, seminars, and networking gatherings available, it’s important to be strategic and selective about which ones you attend. Selecting the right events can really maximise your time out of the office, and provide valuable learning experiences
Define Your Goals
Before signing up for an event, perhaps ask yourself what you hope to gain from it. Some common objectives may include:
- Learning new industry trends and best practices
- Networking with key professionals and potential mentors
- Developing specific skills relevant to your role or future career plans
- Showcasing your expertise and increasing your visibility in your field
Being clear on your goals will help you filter through events and choose those that match and align with your future career plans aspirations.
Research the Event’s Value
Not all corporate events are created equal. Look into:
- Speakers and topics – Are the speakers respected industry leaders? Do the topics align with your interests and professional growth?
- Past attendee reviews – If the event has been held before, check testimonials or LinkedIn posts from previous attendees.
- Format – Will it be a lecture-heavy conference, interactive workshop, or casual networking event? Choose based on your preferred learning and engagement style.
Consider Networking Opportunities
Networking is a key benefit of attending corporate events. Check:
- Who will be attending—will it include industry leaders, potential clients, or colleagues in your field?
- Are there structured networking sessions, meet-and-greets, or social events to facilitate connections?
If expanding your network is a priority, events that foster small group discussions or one-on-one meetups may be more valuable than large, lecture-style conferences.
Balance Cost and ROI
Some corporate events come with hefty price tags, especially large conferences. Consider:
- Employer sponsorship – Many companies are willing to cover event fees if they see value in your participation.
- Virtual vs. in-person attendance – If budget is a concern, some events offer online participation at a lower cost.
- Potential return on investment – Will attending this event lead to new skills, professional recognition, or connections that could benefit your career long-term?
Choose a Mix of Learning and Exposure
For well-rounded career development, consider attending a combination of:
- Industry conferences – To gain insights into the latest trends and innovations.
- Skill-building workshops – To develop expertise in areas like leadership, communication, or technical skills.
- Networking events – To build relationships with professionals in and outside your industry.
- Company-sponsored retreats or team-building events – To strengthen internal connections and gain recognition within your organization.
Selecting the right corporate events can accelerate your career growth and plans, open doors to new opportunities, and keep you ahead of the game in your field. By setting clear goals, researching event quality, and thinking about costs against benefits, you can make informed decisions about which events you attend – maximising your time and development.
Looking to improve your business processes? Ready for a new ERP system? Register to attend our itSHOWCASE ERP Discovery Day.
