Conference logistic lessons learned?

[ctfranssen]

So far the information in the lessons learned area focuses on the actual interviews and preperation for them. Can anyone comment on lessons learned regarding the logistic aspects of the conference? For example: The conference in Austin is at the airport where most people will fly in and not have a rental car, did you always eat at the hotel? If not what other places do you suggest? How did you spend your "free time", what little it sounds like one will have? Did you study by yourself in your room? Lobby? Or with others? Did you need a computer while there? What other things would have been good to know before showing up?

Thanks,

Chris

[jdubberly]

Chris,

Great questions and I hope my answers help. I went to the November 2009 conference in Austin. I live NE of San Antonio so I drove however, how you get to the conference is of little consequence. Once you arrive at the conference consider yourself on lockdown because you will have little to no "free time" once the conference starts. I arrived on Friday at 2:00 pm and literally did not go outside the doors of the hotel until Tuesday at 7:00 pm to load my car. I wouldn't recommend spending the money on a rental; the guys that flew in stayed locked in the hotel just the same as me. However, if you are bringing a spouse/significant-other it might be beneficial for them to have access to transportation to get food or run errands if needed. The hotel rooms have NO refrigerator or microwave so buy non-perishable foods to snack on. The hotel food is better than the DFAC but pricey so if you have someone that can run to Subway great, otherwise you're ordering Pizza Hut because there is nothing within walking distance.

My "free time" involved studying companies, filling out the worksheets provided by C-B, and getting ready for the briefings/interviews. I woke up at 5:00, exercised (decent fitness center) and got ready for the day. Each day started around 7-7:30. After the briefings, I studied in my room with my wife and then went to the conference rooms to meet with C-B team when I had specific questions.

A computer is nice for quick research on an industry or company but not necessary. C-B provide great company briefs and literature to make you just smart-enough to be dangerous in the interview. During the follow-up process web-browsing will be more beneficial as you learn more about the job, company, and market.

Mary Lou provides a great list of material to bring with you such as an expandable file folder. Get a large one with 12-15 dividers; it was my bible during the conference.

Saturday and Sunday are the marathons write down everything and drink from the fire hose. Don't worry you will be shocked at how much you remember come time for the interviews. Saturday and Sunday are business casual (slacks and collared shirt).

Even though it will be August in Texas, the meeting rooms are kept a temperature just warm enough to keep you from a cryogenic state so consider a sweater vest or thicker Oxford style shirt to minimize hypothermia. For Monday/Tuesday bring the recommended two suits with at least three white shirts and 3-4 "power" ties. Some guys perspired badly and needed to change shirts. For me it was just nice to know if I spilled something on my shirt I had a backup ready to go. As for the ties if someone has the same tie you can swap out. Last, but not least, make sure your shoes are shined and broken in. I had two pairs of brand-new dress shoes and they hurt like hell the first two days.

I hope this helps. If you'd like to talk more or have more questions feel free give me call (210) 410-5098 or email me at dubberly@gmail.com. Best of luck.

Jesse