Ramon Ray shares his expert insights on getting the most value from business events in this energetic episode of The Rundown with Ramon. Drawing from his extensive experience attending hundreds of conferences, Ramon provides practical advice for turning any event into a valuable networking and growth opportunity.

Key Points:

• Attend events with clear purpose and intentions
• Master the art of meaningful networking
• Prepare in advance by researching the agenda and speakers
• Follow up effectively with new connections
• Connect with both speakers and fellow attendees
• Understand that the value of events extends beyond just the presentations

Don’t miss out – subscribe to our podcast and sign up to our YouTube channel

The Power of Purpose-Driven Event Attendance

Ramon emphasizes that the first step to a successful event experience is going with purpose. “Go with an intent to get the most out of the event. Go with some purpose in mind,” he advises. Without clear objectives, you risk wandering aimlessly without meaningful takeaways. Having specific goals helps direct your attention and energy toward the conversations and sessions that matter most.

He acknowledges that not all events deliver equal value, noting that “some events you may go to this year, some events you may have been at, they may have been duds.” However, he encourages viewers to recognize that investing time and money in events is ultimately an investment in personal and professional growth.

The Art of Effective Networking

The episode provides valuable insights on networking with purpose rather than treating it as a business card exchange competition. Ramon advises against simply “shoving business cards down people’s throats” or collecting cards without genuine interest in making connections.

Instead, he recommends focusing on being genuinely interested in others: “Be interested in other people. Let me ask Diana Lambert a few questions. Hey, Diana. Who are you? Oh, you do PR publicity? Oh, that’s cool. Tell me about that.”

This approach transforms networking from a transactional exercise into a meaningful exchange that could lead to business opportunities, friendships, or valuable knowledge sharing. As Ramon notes, “It’s about value, value, value transfer. That’s how you successfully attend, show up, and network at events.”

Preparation Makes Perfect

Ramon highlights the importance of thorough preparation before attending any event. “Do research ahead of time and review the agenda,” he advises, suggesting that attendees should know which speakers, sponsors, and sessions align with their objectives.

This preparation extends to understanding the different types of value an event can offer. Sometimes the benefit comes from the formal presentations, while other times it might be about observing how successful industry figures operate. As Ramon shares from his friend TM Hyman’s advice, “Sometimes you attend an event or you attend somebody’s session just to watch them and see how they do what they do.”

The Follow-Up Formula

One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of event attendance is proper follow-up. Ramon stresses the importance of categorizing or tagging new contacts so you can remember who to follow up with: “As you’re adding these people to your contacts, make sure you categorize them or tag them somehow so you remember who to follow-up.”

Whether through business cards (which Ramon still uses, featuring different photos of himself) or digital methods, the key is having a system to maintain those connections after the event ends.

Beyond the Stage: Connecting with Everyone

Ramon emphasizes that value can come from connections with both speakers and fellow attendees. He encourages approaching speakers after their presentations but also reminds viewers not to overlook those sitting nearby: “That person sitting next to you, they may be just as good, just as impactful, just as important as the person on stage. They’re just not speaking that day.”

This comprehensive approach to networking maximizes opportunities for meaningful connections throughout the event.

The Transformative Power of Community

Perhaps the most powerful insight from Ramon’s episode is the value of being in a room with like-minded individuals. Referencing an article from Business Insider about a real estate conference, he notes that “when you want to do something, if you’re really serious about it, get in a room with other people.”

This reflects the idea that success is often influenced by the people we surround ourselves with. As Ramon shares from the article, “Do something that gets you in the same room as people who have already done what you hope to achieve.”

Ramon’s episode provides a complete roadmap for turning business events from obligatory appearances into truly valuable experiences. By attending with purpose, mastering the art of networking, preparing thoroughly, following up effectively, and connecting broadly, anyone can transform their next business event into a significant opportunity for growth and connection.

Related articles

Top Business Events Every Successful Entrepreneur Should Attend(Opens in a new browser tab)

How To Get Paid To Speak With Impact and Results.(Opens in a new browser tab)

Six Proven Ways to Maximize Your Marketing Efforts. Mailchimp Study(Opens in a new browser tab)