So you’re gearing up for the Global Shared Services Summit.
You’ve got a ton on your plate, and the pressure is on. What do you focus on to make the most out of this opportunity?
You’re not alone. Many of us feel overwhelmed before such an event—unsure of what to highlight, what booths to visit, or who to network with. I’ve been there.
As someone who’s explored the shared services landscape for over 20 years, let’s break down how to make this summit not just another calendar date, but a real turning point in your career.
Understand the Value of Preparation
This isn’t just another conference. It’s a chance to shape the future of shared services transformation.
- Explore groundbreaking ideas.
- Connect with trailblazers in the field.
- Elevate your knowledge and practices.
Trust me; the more prepared you are, the more you’ll walk away with insights that can truly transform how you approach your role.
First Step: Set Clear Objectives
What do you want to gain from this summit?
Reflect on your goals:
- Networking? Meeting specific individuals?
- Learning? Diving deep into shared services trends?
- Implementation? Finding actionable strategies for process optimization?
Write down your objectives. Clarity will help you make better decisions on which sessions to attend and discussions to join.
Know Your Audience
Understanding the attendees gives you a leg up.
Your fellow participants are a mix of:
- Associates & Sr. Associates
- Process Experts & Specialists
- Super Users of Operational Systems
- Subject Matter Experts
Think about what interests them. Tailor your conversations, and you’ll find common ground.
Craft Your Networking Strategy
Networking can feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to.
Let’s make it approachable:
- Identify five people you want to connect with during the summit.
- Research them ahead of time. A little info goes a long way.
- Focus on value. What can you share that might interest them?
Remember, networking is a two-way street. Offer genuine insights, and you’ll create lasting connections.
Engage with Content
Get the most out of the sessions by preparing yourself for the content. If you’re attending discussions on shared services transformation, come armed with questions or topics you’re eager to explore.
Take notes during the sessions—real ones. Share highlights on social media and tag speakers. This opens the door for dialogue.
Interactive Workshops: Don’t Just Attend, Participate!
Workshops are gold mines. Participate actively!
Why? It’s not just about gathering information. It’s about:
- Exchanging ideas and best practices.
- Problem-solving with your peers.
- Enhancing your skill set.
Remember, the more you contribute, the more you’ll learn.
Follow Up and Continue the Conversation
The summit doesn’t end when you leave the venue. That’s just the beginning.
Here’s how to keep the momentum going:
- Follow up with the connections you made.
- Email them with insights and resources you discussed.
- Engage on LinkedIn. Share articles that may interest them.
Tell Your Story: Stand Out
Everyone has a story. Don’t hold back!
When talking with fellow attendees, share your experiences. What challenges did you face? What successes have you celebrated?
Your narrative might resonate and create a deeper bond. Storytelling is powerful!
Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Shared services are evolving quickly.
Stay informed about recent trends in:
Having knowledge of what’s current can give you confidence in conversations, making you a go-to person for insights.
After the Summit: Reflect and Implement
Once the summit wraps up, it’s time to reflect.
Ask yourself:
- What insights did you gain?
- How can you implement what you’ve learned?
- Which connections can open new doors?
Document these thoughts in a structured manner. A few notes can spark big changes in your workflow.
Create an Action Plan
It’s not enough to just attend. You have to take action.
Create a post-summit plan that includes:
- Key initiatives based on new insights.
- Follow-up actions with your network.
- Ideas for sharing knowledge with your team.
Why The GBS Edge? Your Go-To Resource
I highly recommend visiting THEGBSEDGE blog for insights and encouragement.
This blog is packed with resources like people and culture trends, process optimization strategies, and leadership guidance relevant to shared services.
Stay Connected
Don’t let this experience fade away after the summit.
Commit to engaging in the shared services community.
Subscribe to THEGBSEDGE and stay abreast of the latest talking points and innovations.
Preparing for the Global Shared Services Summit is about more than just attending an event.
It’s about equipping yourself with the tools, connections, and insights to elevate your career in shared services.
Let’s turn those challenges into growth opportunities and make an impact that lasts beyond the event itself!
