Are Conferences Worth It for Creators?

Social Media News Live: Discussing the latest social media tools, tips, and tactics with industry experts, innovators, creators, and storytellers

Conferences can be pricey, but are they worth it for creators? Paul Gowder joins me to share how in-person events can transform your business, your network, and your confidence.

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If you’ve ever stared at the price tag for a conference ticket and thought, “Do I really need to go?”, this episode’s for you. Between the travel, hotel, and time away from work, it’s a big investment, but one that might just change your business.

This week, I’m joined by Paul Gowder, founder of PowWows.com, who’s spent over 25 years building community both online and in person. Paul shares what he’s learned about finding real ROI at conferences, not just from the sessions, but from the conversations in the hallways, the introductions over coffee, and the long-term relationships that come from showing up.

We dig into how to choose which events are worth it, how to prepare so you’re not wandering aimlessly, and the secret to making every trip pay off long after you’re home. Whether you’re an introvert looking to make your first conference count or a seasoned creator who wants better results, this episode will help you show up strategically and walk away with more than just a tote bag.

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Key Takeaways

• Find your people, not just the speakers: The sessions are great, but the community you build is what lasts.
• Look for structure: Conferences that include table talks or networking sessions make connecting easier.
• Invest in yourself: The right event can lead to opportunities that pay for themselves.
• Prepare with purpose: Know who you want to meet, what you want to learn, and what value you can offer.
• Follow up fast: Message new contacts within a few days while the connection is still fresh.
• Consider volunteering: It’s a great way to save money, gain access, and meet more people.

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Resources

• Paul Gowder: paulgowder.com and powwows.com
• Conferences mentioned:
• Ecamm's Creator Camp
• Lou Mongellos Momentum
• KIT's Craft & Commerce
• Social Media Marketing World

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JeffSieh.com - Unlock the power of authentic storytelling with me! With over 20 years of marketing experience, I'm here to elevate your brand's narrative in an ever-competitive market. My expertise spans consulting, visual marketing, and producing podcasts and live videos.

Additionally, as a seasoned speaker, I'm not just about sharing knowledge--I believe in entertaining audiences and injecting humor into every presentation. I'm available to enlighten and engage audiences at your events, conferences, or institutions. My talks cover a diverse range of subjects, from purposeful repurposing and captivating storytelling to podcast promotion, social media strategies, visual marketing insights, the art of live video, and much more.