How to Make the Most of Your FPRA Annual Conference Experience
By: Valerie Moses, MBA, FPRA Orlando President
For many FPRA members, our Annual Conference is one of the highlights of the year. Every year, the Annual Conference brings together communications practitioners from all across the state, for several days of professional development, camaraderie and even designated chocolate breaks.
However, for those attending for the first time, the event can seem a little daunting. As a textbook introvert in a very outward-facing industry, I still remember how nervous I felt as I stepped into the President’s Reception at my very first Annual Conference several years ago.
Thankfully, with our association’s culture of inclusion and a variety of networking opportunities, there are plenty of ways to uncover that sense of belonging while learning new skills and best practices. Check out my tips for making the most of your Annual Conference experience in the year ahead!
Attend your chapter’s social events.
This year, the Orlando Area Chapter hosted a bowling night in Disney Springs on the first Monday of Annual Conference. Our members met up at Splitsville for refreshments and some friendly competition as we celebrated our President Award wins from earlier in the day and connected with both new and familiar faces. Traditionally, chapters often meet that first Monday night for dinner, drinks or other social activities, and it’s a great opportunity to get to know your local leaders and colleagues in a more casual setting.
Use the conference app.
Before the sessions begin, take some time to download FPRA’s Conference app to map out your schedule and get connected with others. The app will help you determine which breakouts will best fit your interests and needs, and is an easy way to stay up-to-date on any changes in schedule or class locations.
Take notes.
Whether you prefer pen-to-paper or a more digital set-up, be ready to take notes during the keynotes and breakout sessions. In our ever-changing communications landscape, there are so many important trends and current events to keep up with, and by taking notes, you’ll be able to stay organized and retain the information you learn for later. Only a few months ago, while working on a project for work, I was able to refer to notes I took from one of our 2022 Annual Conference speakers! This will not only assist you on future work assignments but can also help you illustrate the value of FPRA membership and Conference attendance to your employer as well.
Get out of your bubble.
FPRA has an incredible statewide network of communications practitioners. While it can be comfortable to spend time with a smaller circle of people throughout the Conference, I encourage you to get to know others outside of your typical group. Talk to members from other chapters and learn more about their FPRA involvement as well! This year, I had several opportunities to reconnect with my LeadershipFPRA classmates at Annual Conference, and we were able to chat about all things career, industry changes and more. Because several of my classmates also serve in leadership roles, we were also able to exchange notes and collaborate on ideas for our chapters!
Ask questions.
Don’t be afraid to take the microphone and ask a question. Annual Conference gives you the opportunity to hear from renowned speakers and experts in the public relations field, and they welcome the opportunity to engage with members and answer your questions. Outside of the breakout rooms, Annual Conference is also a chance to meet countless leaders at the chapter and state level. Take time to get to know others in industries or leadership roles of interest to you. They are absolutely willing to share!
Annual Conference 2023 may have come to an end, but the 2024 event will be here before we know it! As the next conference approaches, set some goals for what you want to get out of it, and plan accordingly.
