Tech Decisions has had the pleasure of producing the daily newspapers for the IASA annual conference for the last several years, and as we approach this year's event, what stands out for me from all the many articles we've done is the one where conference veterans spoke about what has kept them coming back.
“To me, IASA is a relationship situation. Of course, you get all the technical information. And for any question you have, there's an answer there somewhere. But for me, it's the relationships and the friends I have made over the years.” This quote came from an insurance company attendee who had attended pretty regularly, he said, over 41 years.
(For another view of social networking, click this article.)
This year I was privileged to participate in the ACORD LOMA conference advisory council. In an effort to put together an event that would best serve the needs of its attendees, the folks at the organizations called on members of insurance companies, consultants/analysts, and the press to offer up ideas for sessions and other activities. One of the most talked about areas was a variety of opportunities to network (which, coincidentally, was what we happened to be doing on those conference calls, too).
I also have attended some IASA spring meetings to find very dedicated volunteers from carriers, vendors, and the press diligently sharing information, developing the conference program–and networking themselves.
Busy schedules and tight budgets may bruise attendance, but so far, they haven't broken the events. I find this interesting in a world where the long-term future of agents frequently has been a matter of debate (for more, click here) and the role of technology in customer retention is so highly touted (for more, click here).
I joined this magazine four days before the IASA conference a bunch of years ago and was told on Day One I already was late on my first “Editor's Note”–no kidding.
Then I flew to San Francisco and was saved. I immersed myself in all the ideas that flowed through the halls, and at 2 a.m. in my hotel room, my editorial magically came together.
Being an insecure newbie, I showed it to my seasoned colleagues, and they thought it was spot on. I don't think I could have done as good a job on it at that stage any other way.
Don't get me wrong. I'm certainly not technology bashing or promoting these events. But in a world where there is increasing disintermediation, self-service, and expectations of what our fingertips can do, those fingers still can't quite replace what our eyes, ears, and mouths are capable of. And I, for one, am glad.
So, if you've read this and will be at the conferences and you notice me in the crowds, please tap me on the shoulder and say hello. I look forward to seeing, hearing, and speaking with you.
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