Make New Friends But Keep The Old.
Post written by Missy Johnson, Principal, MJMeetings, LLC | Meetings Consultant | Gourmet Food & Wine Enthusiast | Sports Fan
I recently got back from the PCMA Convening Leaders annual meeting in Vancouver and wanted to share a few lessons learned.
As I mentioned in my last blog post, this conference has served as “my New Year’s cleanse” for each of the last 15 years. It consistently refreshes my mind, body and spirit and gives me new motivation as I start each new year.
This year, my attention was divided between two areas:
-Assisting PCMA in running a successful conference as I helped manage the logistics in a few breakout rooms.
-Maximizing networking with old friends and new.
PCMA Logistics
The logistics management work I did allowed me the opportunity to hear several great speakers in the educational sessions. Most were considered “thought leaders” and gave me insight and inspiration that I was craving.
For example, I learned about creating brand advocates from Johnny Earle, the creator and founder of the cult brand, Johnny Cupcakes, who inspired me to not be afraid and just go for it.
And Mel Robbins taught me about the four-letter F-word (FINE) that I should banish from my vocabulary and what it can mean for my psyche and overall attitude.
These are just a few examples of the great main stage speakers who were brought to the conference by great speakers reps like my friends Tim Mathy at Speak Inc. and Tom Neilssen at BrightSight Group.
Networking
While networking, I kept thinking about that old song from when I was a girl scout, “Make new friends but keep the old…one is silver and the other’s gold”.
I really wanted to re-connect with old friends in the industry who I might only see once or twice a year.
And of course I wanted to meet several new people and foster those relationships for years to come. I’m happy to report that both goals were accomplished.
I feel a renewed sense of connection to those in my industry who truly relate to my challenges and frustrations in this industry. That alone made the trip worth it. Feeling connected to those who ‘get it’ is invaluable.
My cleanse is complete. Time to move forward with purpose, optimism and passion…
2016: Here I come!
I love the pictures…thanks for capturing the fun of the meeting.
Thank you Betty. You are a NEW friend that I know will become and OLD friend! Best for a successful 2016.
Great blog, my old friend! I couldn’t agree more, nurture your best connections and never stop making new ones!
Thank YOU old friend for reading and commenting on my blog! You’re the best! Enjoy your vacation!
The relationships, old and new, are what make the meetings industry great!! Thanks for helping the team and for just being you!
Jody, it was great to see you and thanks for allowing me to be part of your team for a few days. Hope to connect again soon! Great job on a great event.
Great Comments Missy,
yes, as the old United Airlines commercial portrayed in the 90’s… we get to caught up in trying to find NEW contacts, but should NEVER forget our old one’s that got us to where we are today.
THEY are so special…
Tyrie, thanks for reading and commenting. You are an old friend who will always be special to me!
What a great reminder that the new year provides opportunities for us to make resolutions about our work lives as well. I am inspired to think about what steps I can take to improve in my career, but I am also keen on staying in touch with old friends. Great post!
Well hello OLD friend! So glad you are reading and commenting on my blog! Let’s resolve to always pick up right where we leave off! XOXOXO