Next week, on the 12th and 13th of June, thousands of accountants, bookkeepers, and finance professionals from the UK, Europe, and beyond will gather for Xerocon London 2024. This event is a must-attend for Xero users and app partners, as it offers a prime opportunity to delve into the latest trends, updates, and enhancements in the Xero ecosystem, while also facilitating valuable networking with peers and Xero experts. If you haven’t secured your ticket yet, there's still time to grab one.
After participating in numerous Xerocons over the last few years, the Chaser team has gathered some useful tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your Xerocon experience.
Whether you're a veteran attendee or new to the scene, this guide is your ticket to maximizing the event. In this article, we’ll cover five practical tips to help you navigate Xerocon London. From planning your schedule to making meaningful connections, these tips will ensure you leave the event with valuable insights to enhance your practice and expertise.
1. Do your research
Before you even step foot at Xerocon London, it's important to be well-prepared. This involves more than just skimming through the event schedule; it means diving deep into the details to maximize your time and opportunities.
- Review the schedule: Start by thoroughly examining the event schedule. Identify the keynotes, sessions, and workshops that are most relevant to your interests and professional goals. Make a note of the times and locations so you can plan your day effectively.
You can find the Xerocon scheduled here
- Know the exhibitors: Familiarize yourself with the exhibitors who will be present. Many exhibitors offer demonstrations or special promotions at their booths. Identify which ones you want to visit and prepare any questions you might have. This proactive approach can save you time and help you gather valuable information.
2. Set clear goals
Having a clear set of goals can transform your Xerocon experience from overwhelming to highly productive. Goals help you focus on what matters most and ensure you leave the event with actionable insights and connections.
- Identify your objectives: What do you want to achieve at Xerocon? Your goals might include networking with industry leaders, learning about new software solutions, or gaining insights into emerging trends. Write down your objectives so you can refer back to them throughout the event.
- Plan your meetings: If there are specific individuals or companies you want to meet, try to arrange meetings in advance. Reach out through LinkedIn or the event app to set up appointments. This proactive approach ensures you have dedicated time to discuss your needs and interests.
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- Stay flexible: While it's important to have a plan, it's also crucial to remain flexible. Be open to spontaneous opportunities and conversations that might arise. Sometimes, the most valuable insights come from unexpected interactions.
Setting clear goals provides a roadmap for your Xerocon experience, helping you stay focused and achieve your objectives.
3. Engage and network
Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of attending Xerocon. The event brings together a diverse group of professionals, offering countless opportunities to build meaningful connections.
- Participate in networking sessions: Xerocon typically includes structured networking sessions. Make a point to attend these, as they are designed to facilitate connections between attendees. Prepare a brief elevator pitch about yourself and your business to make a strong first impression.
- Attend the Xerocon Party: The Xerocon party is a highlight of the event, offering a more relaxed environment to meet and mingle with other attendees. These social gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to deepen connections made during the day and meet new people in a less formal setting. Enjoy the music, food, and festivities while continuing to build valuable relationships.
- Be approachable: Networking isn't just about handing out business cards. It's about building relationships. Be approachable, listen actively, and show genuine interest in others. Ask open-ended questions to learn more about their experiences and challenges.
Effective networking can lead to new partnerships, collaborations, and opportunities long after Xerocon ends.
4. Comfort is key
With the packed schedule and extensive walking required at Xerocon, comfort is essential for maintaining your energy and focus throughout the event.
- Choose the right footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must. Consider wearing supportive, cushioned footwear that can handle long periods of standing and walking. Your feet will thank you by the end of the day.
- Stay hydrated and nourished: Conferences can be exhausting, and it's easy to forget to take care of basic needs like hydration and nutrition. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day. Take advantage of refreshment breaks to grab a healthy snack and keep your energy levels up.
By prioritizing your comfort, you'll be better equipped to stay engaged and make the most of your Xerocon experience.
5. Follow up
The end of Xerocon is just the beginning of your journey. To truly capitalize on the event, follow-up is crucial.
- Review your notes: After the event, take some time to go through your notes. Identify key takeaways, action items, and any new ideas or strategies you want to implement. This reflection helps reinforce what you've learned and how it can benefit your business.
- Reach out to new contacts: Send follow-up emails to the people you met. Personalize your messages by referencing specific conversations or shared interests. This helps to reinforce the connection and opens the door for future communication.
- Implement what you've learned: Knowledge is only valuable if it's applied. Discuss the insights and ideas you've gathered with your team and explore how they can be integrated into your current practices. Set measurable goals to track the impact of these new strategies.
Following up ensures that the value of Xerocon extends beyond the event itself, leading to long-term benefits for your business.
By following these five tips, you'll be well-equipped to make the most out of Xerocon London. Whether you're looking to network, learn, or discover new tools and technologies, a strategic approach will help you achieve your goals and enhance your professional journey.