Unlocking Growth and Inspiration: My Experience at the 2024 SMPS NERC Conference in Boston
Posted on May. 23, 2024 / Events / Subscribe 0
AUTHOR: Jennifer Pollio Contact
Joining SMPS Boston nearly two years ago has been pivotal in my career shift into the AEC industry. Despite having over a decade of experience in sales and marketing, stepping into my current role felt daunting due to the industry's niche nature. Nonetheless, SMPS has provided me with invaluable resources and opportunities, facilitating the expansion of my professional network and boosting my confidence in AEC marketing software.
Securing a scholarship from the SMPS Boston chapter to attend the SMPS NERC Conference in Boston marked a significant milestone for me. As the sole member of B2Q Associates' marketing team, I hesitated to invest in myself, mindful of stretching our firm's resources. I initially signed up as a volunteer, hoping to get a peek into the action and find out what it was all about. I took a chance applying for the scholarship, and I am thrilled that I did. Attending this conference proved to be more than just another industry event; it was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of professional services marketing and opened new avenues for professional growth.
The SMPS NERC Conference brimmed with inspiration, learning, and networking opportunities. Sessions offered valuable insights, ranging from brand strategy development to discussions on AI influence. Volunteering at the registration desk and participating in networking events enabled me to forge new connections with industry professionals. The reception at the New England Aquarium was particularly enjoyable; we had the entire place to ourselves, indulged in some cocktails and dinner, and even had the chance to greet Myrtle the Turtle.
Key Takeaways
SMPS Community Support: The collaborative and supportive SMPS community, with over 8,000 members, is invaluable. Amy Cuddy's session on navigating the challenges of small marketing teams reignited my passion for driving change within my firm. It equipped me with practical strategies to enhance my efficiency and effectiveness as a marketing professional. The session also provided me with a network of other marketers to brainstorm with and learn from. Our small marketing team cohort was established during the session and we will meet once a month. I am incredibly grateful for this support.
Charting Success: Reflecting on my experience at the SMPS NERC Conference, I'm reminded of this year's theme: "Charting Success." For me, it means setting clear goals, embracing challenges, and leveraging SMPS's resources to achieve them. Whether it's enhancing our marketing strategies at B2Q or contributing to the success of the SMPS Boston chapter, I'm committed to a path that's fulfilling and true to our brand.
Post-Conference Actions
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Tap into SMPS Support: Benefit from the extensive support and resources provided by SMPS for professional success.
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Implement More Efficient Processes: Recognize the significance of established processes and standards of procedures for efficient operations, drawing inspiration from the templates provided by presenters to create better processes within my firm. Use resources provided to organize marketing tasks and maximize productivity.
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Harness the Power of Brand Storytelling: Create opportunities to empower my technical team with storytelling skills to shape our brand's identity and connect with your audience. Train technical team members with clear elevator pitches and storytelling formats for client interactions, helping them to become an integral part of marketing efforts.
Conclusion
Attending the SMPS NERC Conference was more than just professional development; it was a journey of growth, inspiration, and connection. I'm deeply grateful to the SMPS Boston chapter for their support and the invaluable experiences they've provided me. As I continue my journey in the AEC industry, I'm excited to apply the insights and lessons learned to chart a course toward continued success.
Thank you, SMPS, for an unforgettable experience!
Conference Photos
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