The annual ShareASale Think Tank event is always spectacular. SAS CEO Brian Littleton and his team continue to evolve the annual two-day invite-only gathering based on feedback from the attendees, which includes merchants, affiliates, agencies and more. It doesn’t hurt that this year’s Think Tank was held at the Grand Del Mar Resort in San Diego. It’s a stunning and opulent setting for the intimate gathering.

Each of the networks holds an annual event. Each is special in its own way. LinkShare has it’s grand black-tie awards set against the backdrop of New York. Commission Junction”s CJU is held in gorgeous Santa Barbara and has great networking opportunities. The Google Affiliate Network’s Chicago event is packed with information and a fun Chicago party or trip to the ball game.

But Think Tank is very different. It’s smaller (about 120 people); more casual and everyone has a voice. The chance to merchants and affiliates to connect is foremost in both formal and informal ways. Plus, the final session is so unique. Brian stands in the middle of a ballroom - surrounded by all the attendees - and fields questions about both the format of the event and whether it satisfied all the attendees needs. He also addresses very specific questions, suggestions and issues about working with SAS and the network interface.

But the vibe is so positive. It’s not a bitch session. It’s constructive and valuable. In addition, the frank discussion often yields nearly immediate results. Action items are resolved quickly and changes implemented with lightening speed. And if there is something that cannot be changed, Brian explains why and often get suggestions that result in all parties being happy. It’s an amazing thing to see the respect that these folks have for a network.

Thanks Brian for allowing me to be part of the annual discussions. The connections I make at Think Tank are amazing and inspiring.

Check out Missy Ward’s take on Think Tank