The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives is hosting its annual convention in Montreal from August 11-14. If you’re a chamber professional you should consider going, if not this year, then next. Here’s why:
Reasons Chamber Professionals Should Go to ACCE
Networking. For many conferences the “hallway track” is one of the most valuable. The things you learn from peers can’t be learned by following the event feed on Twitter. Go. Make connections. Learn a lot.
Vendors. If you’re in the market for an upgrade in technology, attending ACCE allows you to visit multiple vendors in very little time. Ask questions, pick up their information, and compare them. Shopping software in the same room is infinitely easier than phone calls back and forth; plus many vendors offer show specials. You may even pick up some cool swag.
Learning. The sessions are inspiring and filled with actionable ways to improve your chamber and add to your professional development. You most likely will get a chance to meet some of the top minds in the industry.
Energy. There’s something about the energy at a conference. You have to experience it yourself.
Innovation. We all get mired down in the day-to-day operations. Conventions allow us to see things from a new perspective and talk about exciting topics like the future and innovation. Attendance gives you a new shot of career adrenaline.
Commiseration. Your significant other can handle only so much shop talk. Being around chamber professionals helps you lament struggles you share and find solutions.
Content. ACCE is a great place to pick up content. From social media posts from the convention to topics for future blog posts, the meeting will inspire your content for days (or maybe months) to come.
Share. Because what you learn will be brought back and shared with your community, or used to improve your programming, you’re not the only one who benefits. Your chamber and your representative area does as well.
If you’re attending ACCE (and why wouldn’t you be after this blog?), make it a point to stop by Booth 304 and see Matt. He’d love to hear how you’re enjoying the convention.
