How many content marketing seminars have you attended? And has each one given you the insights and tips that you hoped it would? We always feel that some seminars are better than others. But, it isn’t only the organizer’s or the speaker’s responsibility to make the seminar worthwhile. You, too, can do your share of homework to make the most of a content marketing seminar. Here’s how:

Follow the hashtag

Everyone conducting a content marketing seminar creates a hashtag and posts things on social media – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram – to grab the audience’s attention. These posts are usually a peek into what the seminar will include – topics it will cover, and its purpose. Hence, following the relevant hashtag will give you a fair idea of what to expect from the seminar. If the event has a microsite, follow that too. It will help you keep yourself updated on everything related to the seminar.

Get to know the speaker

It’s always a good thing to run a little background check on the speaker – what he or she does or has previously done, social media presence, others’ opinion of them etc. It will help you ascertain the kind of knowledge, experience and expertise they bring to the table. Moreover, when you have a better understanding of their background, you’ll have better questions to ask.

Meet new people

Get out of your comfort zone. Don’t sit next to the same person who has been beside you at almost every seminar. Seminars are great opportunities for you to meet new people and forge future professional relationships. So, talk to a stranger, share your experiences, and who knows you might learn a few unexpected content marketing lessons.

Pro Tip: When you are trying to initiate a conversation, start with a question. “The next speaker seems interesting. What do you think?” or “What are your views on ____?” Try asking questions that can’t be answered in a simple yes or no.

Participate

Don’t be passive. Nothing gets learnt that way. So, if the speaker asks for someone from the audience to share their experience, raise your hand. Not only will you find that a lot of people have had similar experiences, but you could also hear different opinions and start a lively, useful discussion. This will help you widen your perspective.

Ask and thou shall know

Ask as many questions as you want. It is important that you have all your doubts cleared and get the solutions to all your content problems. You could also have a one-on-one conversation with the speaker or the expert, if possible.

So, now that you know how to make the most of content marketing seminars pack your bags and be ready to #engageunfoolishly.