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MLA 2024 Annual Conference Tips for First Time Attendees

MLA Annual Conference Workgroup members put together this list of tips and tricks for first time in-person conference attendees to help you get the most out of your experience.

Download the Tip Sheet (pdf)

1. Make a Plan

• Reflect on what you are hoping to learn. Review the conference schedule.
• Choose sessions you are interested in learning, but always make a Plan B. Sometimes sessions are full, or after a few minutes you realize it wasn't what you thought it would be about. It's okay to leave and go to another session, especially early in the session.
• Pick up a map of the facility and make a note of where events/sessions are located.
• Download any handouts to sessions that spark your interest (whether or not you plan to attend). Print copies may not be available.
• Test your Internet connections; while turning off the sound on your smartphone is appreciated, you can still use your phone to take notes.
• Ask questions. Speakers are usually happy to speak with participants after a session.
• Take notes. Write down any questions you may have or ideas that come up to you during a session.

2. Bring with You

• Plenty of business cards.
• A small notebook and pens/pencils; even if you are taking notes using a device, a notebook is always handy, and sometimes technology doesn't work!
• A tote or bag to carry all the handouts, posters, and all the fun swag you may receive.
• A water bottle. Filling stations will be available at the conference center.
• Wear comfortable shoes!
• Layer your clothing. Room temperatures can differ.

3. Exhibits

• Plan time during your day(s) to visit vendors. They want to talk with you.
• They don't expect every conversation to end in a sale. Make sure you stop by booths of vendors you already use. They love to be able to put a face with a voice!
• If you come to the conference with a list of possible purchases, you will be able to use your time to seek out vendors who can help you.
• Take the candy -- always take the candy!

4. Final Thoughts

• Introduce yourself to the person sitting next to you.
• Make new friends -- networking is one of the best benefits of conference attendance.
• Budget some time to check out local sites and venues, if possible.

Download the Tip Sheet (pdf)