Build Relationships, Then Build Business
Karen K. Roch, CPSM
Building relationships is the biggest opportunity that national conference provides SMPS members. As our marketing mantra, “building relationships” with our peers, colleagues, and competitors is what the national conference affords us all.

When I started at Karlsberger in September 1991, Mitch Levitt and another colleague had just returned from the national conference. While I had been a regular attendee at the Columbus Chapter meetings, I had had the opportunity to attend only one national conference. Listening to the stories and seeing the relationships they had made at the conference, and how quickly they were able to tap into this new network, I anxiously awaited the 1992 conference so that I could join in the fun.

Fourteen years later, I have missed only two national conferences. While the benefits are numerous, the networking aspect stands out on many different levels. I quickly had the opportunity to meet colleagues from across the United States, enabling me to develop a new network of peers in all disciplines of this industry. Within four days, I had new contacts who were truly my friends, who could help me meet Karlsberger’s marketing goals.

Also, coming from a national firm, I am able to foster relationships with my colleagues from our regional offices by attending conference as a team. Having coffee, walking the exhibit hall floor, and seeing new ideas together build great support for trying new things back home. We even take advantage of being together to conduct strategic marketing meetings face to face that would otherwise be conducted by phone.

Another amazing aspect of attending the national conference is the opportunity to meet and mingle with my mentors, those I look up to. Where else would I have had a chance to meet and talk with people like Nancy Egan, Liz Quebe, Carla Thompson, and countless others? I met all these professionals through my network, and since, I have called upon them countless times for advice, favors, and luckily enough, consulting opportunities where I had the chance to bring their expertise to Karlsberger.

Now, after attending 12 conferences, I can’t begin to put into 500 words the benefit attending brings me as a professional marketer and as a human being. The workshops and presentations are a bonus. The enthusiasm and spirit are a byproduct. Being there is simply an experience that all A/E/C marketers should have. It helps me do my job and to stay motivated.

The camaraderie and support that result from these relationships stay with you, and in many different ways. It may be a funny e-mail that makes you laugh when you are ready to throw in the towel, or it could be a heartfelt message at a time of tragedy; SMPS friends are for real.

What you take home with you is a confidence and renewed energy that is difficult to explain. The best way to share it with your colleagues at home is to take away a new idea. Try something a new way because you now know it worked for someone else. And call upon your new network. I guarantee you and your firm with benefit.

For program details or to register for Build Business: Beyond Boundaries, the 2005 SMPS/PSMA National Conference, August 10-13 in New Orleans, please visit www.buildbusiness.org.