Seminars
Seminars are a cost effective and efficient way to improve your banking knowledge.
Seminars present practical information in a hands on training environment. Now more than ever a well educated and engaged work force is essential. Networking and contacts are another advantage of MBA seminars. Where better to meet people just like you, who are successful and growing? At your next seminar you may find someone with an answer to your perplexing problem.
The concepts outlined below will help you to get the most out of your next seminar.
Getting the Most out of a Seminar
Request Attendance
Usually there are no out-of-pocket expenses to the individual attending a seminar. Most organizations will pay for their employee's registration (this is an investment for them too!). It isn't always easy taking the time out of your busy schedule and getting permission to spend some of your company's training budget. While simple verbal requests are sometimes all it takes, a written request is often better. When making such requests to your boss consider outlining the features of the seminar. If you have received a brochure outlining the program, include it, highlighting the features that will benefit you and the company. This allows your boss to see exactly what they are getting for their money.
Determine Your Goals
Take the time to determine what your goals are and then put them into writing. Be sure to ask yourself these questions, "Why did I register for this seminar?" and "What do I expect to achieve?" Be sure to determine any questions you would like answered. Bring your goals with you to the seminar. This will help you determine if all your needs have been met, and if not, then you can ask questions to clarify any unanswered issues you may have.
Plan Ahead
Arrive early to register, meet a few people and get seated. If you are driving be sure to get directions the day before and allow enough driving time. Come prepared with paper, writing utensils and a sweater or jacket...you can never predict the temperature in the meeting rooms!
Network
Take advantage of the seminar to expand your network of contacts. Sit next to someone you do not know. You will realize that every registrant has an expertise of their own. And don't forget your business cards!
Take Action
Now is the opportunity to make sure all your goals are met. Ask questions and make contributions. Participate in exercises the instructor has provided. This is the purpose of attending a seminar. If you had just wanted information, you could have read a book. If you had wanted a lecture, you could have listened to an audio tape. You will benefit much more by participating in the game rather than by sitting on the sidelines.
Get Involved
Taking notes will allow you to concentrate during the seminar and organize your thoughts. Your notes will make a good reference to turn to in the future. Be sure not to write down what the instructor is saying word for word. You will benefit more if you put it into your own words and determine how you will use this information. When taking notes determine, "How can I use this information in my job?" and "How can I integrate these ideas into my company?" Determine the main objective of the seminar to justify its cost. (Rule of Thumb: The seminar should have a payback in terms of savings or profits of five times the tuition fee). There are new ideas to be learned...it is up to you to take the initiative!
Relate the Seminar to Your Job
If the instructor is talking about sales techniques, but you are not in sales, determine how you may use this information on the job to be more persuasive. In other words, do not settle for "abstract" knowledge. With your goals foremost in your mind ask yourself, "How can I use this information in my job?"
Make a Commitment
Following a seminar review your notes and write down the specific things you intend to do differently or better. Be specific when writing down new actions. Instead of writing, "Improve communication with my staff," quantify your action by writing, "Start having a Monday morning staff briefing." Specify when you will implement your new action.
Compose a "Dear Boss" Letter
Be sure to send a thank you letter to your supervisor or company if they sent you to the seminar (this will make a great impression!). Include an outline of what you learned and how you plan to implement it. Even if you paid your own way, send the report. This will show how committed you are to your own professional growth. Here is an example of a "Dear Boss" letter.