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Testimonials from Past Year's AttendeesSMPS has always been the most powerful network in the industry. If you want to be in the know about what is happening in the market, then you need to be a part of the networking that happens at the SMPS/PSMA National Conference.
The national conference is the only place where I can increase my marketing expertise, hear nationally-recognized experts, solidify my relationships with peers, become acquainted with suppliers and vendors, and build my national network of contacts and potential mentors—all in one place. Where the local chapter provides the foundation for education and community, the national conference provides stair steps for enhanced career growth because of its focus on the world beyond.
Many of us are 'lone wolves': that singular marketing voice lost in the rush of the daily operations of design or construction firms. Build Business is my chance to reconnect and reenergize my batteries! Then, each year, I return to Nashville, armed with tools to help my firm successfully pursue and win new work ...or keep our existing clients ecstatic.
My primary reason for attending the conference is the networking. As a ‘senior’ SMPS member, I love the reunion with colleagues I’ve worked with over the years. Equally, I enjoy meeting our younger members to learn innovative approaches and be inspired by their fresh perspectives.
I attend the national conference every year for several reasons. The educational sessions are excellent. It’s great to catch up with old and new friends, and hear and see what other firms are doing. ut the main reason I go every year is the energy and ideas I bring back to work with me.
I thrive on the opportunities the conference offers to get to know marketers from around the country in various stages of their careers, and to gain operational perspective from PSMA members who are leaders in other management disciplines. It’s often a challenge to commit time to learn and refresh when I'm constantly meeting deadlines and managing a business. Conference gives me a chance to reconnect with friends, opportunities to hear speakers from outside my normal channels, and many choices for picking up new knowledge or skills (sometimes just from conversations!). Conference tears off my blinders and reminds me that there is a bigger world out there!
By attending the sessions, keynotes, and networking opportunities, I have only increased my value to my firm, and believe me, they recognize this. I have also formed long-term relationships with my peers all over the country and have gained much more confidence and self-worth over the years.
I registered for the conference with the expectation of attending educational, thought-provoking, creatively stimulating, and engaging workshops. I wanted the opportunity to network with marketing professionals across the globe, not only to build relationships but to exchange ideas that would be mutually beneficial in our respective workplaces…I am happy to say all of my expectations were met.
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