There was a thread on the affiliate forum ABestWeb.com about first timers’ experiences at the Affiliate Summit. I was sorry to hear that not everyone had a completely pleasant experience at the event. Many pointed out that they felt there were many people whom they wanted to meet but felt were unapproachable. Most people singled out responded on the forum that had someone come up to them they would have been glad to chat. In many case, these people were not even approached.

Some like coupon queen Connie Berg even suggested that next time around there be a mentoring program, whereby industry veterans would spend time with newbies or first timers or even take them around the show floor or to a networking event with them. Great idea, Connie.

Others eagerly chimed in and said, “sign me up” and offered additional good suggestions to help fist timers get acclimated in the environment, which can at times be overwhelming and even slightly intimidating.

This year, the show was different for me as well. I found myself traveling around the show floor, the sessions, the various networking events and to the parties, in sort of a pack. I spent nearly all my time hanging out with the same 10 to 12 people. I was great to get to know some of these folks on an even deeper level, but I do regret that I didn’t meet as many new people as I have in the past at Affiliate Summit. However, many of these folks in the group introduced me to lots of others and I appreciated those introductions. So for me, it was all about quality not quantity. There were also three or so first timers in the group and I hope they felt comfortable and welcomed.

For many the conference is a chance to catch up with old friends and meet others that we communicate virtually with on a face-to-face basis. It’s also natural that people gravitate towards those they know and feel comfortable with in such large social situations.

I know this sounds very obvious, but don’t be shy about talking with people you want to meet. Often, if I see someone standing alone, I assume (and maybe wrongly so) that person wants to be left alone, not that they are shy are hesitant about approaching others. After all, the event can be overwhelming and sometimes people are just taking a breather from all action to regroup. I will try and change my attitude about that at the next Summit.

Also, use the networking tools that Shawn and Missy provide prior to the conference. If there is someone you’d like met, contact them before the show and let them know. This is a great way to hook up with people.

I also try to make sure that I go to the breakfast each morning. I find that I always end up sitting with people I don’t know and having the most interesting conversations. And while many of the older timers don’t attend the breakfast, you might find another first timer and bond with them over your new experiences.
I think Missy and Shawn do a great job of making everyone feel welcome and I hope that this Summit’s first timers will have some suggestions for the next Summit to help others. If I can help in any way to facilitate that, let me know.