This year, the Corporate Counsel Men of Color (CCMC) Career Strategies Conference will take place virtually on September 9, 2021. You can access the conference from your smart device or computer.
Our virtual conference presenters are Daymond John, Hill Harper and Dr. Steve Perry. As an attendee, you will have front-row access to useful career and business strategies – all from the comfort of your home or office.
2021 CCMC Career Strategies Conference topics include:
- Leadership
- Career Strategies
- Financial Literacy
- Personal Branding
- How to Transition From a Corporate Employee to an Entrepreneur
- Work-Life Balance
Attending an interactive conference may be different from the in-person conferences that you are used to. But that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from a virtual format. Here are 6 ways that you can make the most out of attending the CCMC Career Strategies Conference.
1. Block off time on your schedule for the conference.
Your schedule reflects the things that are most important to you. As soon as you sign up for the conference, block the time on your schedule. That way, you will know that you shouldn’t schedule another activity for that date and time. Scheduling this event shows that you are making it a priority.
2. Wear nice clothing and look your best.
Wearing sweatpants and a hoodie is comfortable. But does athleisure clothing make you look and feel your best? Probably not.
Get dressed for the conference. While you don’t have to wear a suit or tuxedo, you can wear a nice business casual outfit. Dressing well on any occasion can boost your confidence and give you a sense of accomplishment.
3. Make a list of the reasons you are attending the conference.
Why are you signing up for the conference? Are you ready to change careers? Or do you need tips because you want to start a business.
Explore your reasons a few days before the conference. Think about your goals and aspirations. Which presentations will help you achieve those goals? Knowing your purpose will give you the conviction to show up even if you don’t feel like it or something else comes up.
4. Take notes during the conference.
Unlike watching television, you must actively participate in a virtual conference if you want to get something out of it. That’s why it’s a good idea to jot down interesting points and ideas.
Taking notes helps you focus, learn and engage with the topic. It requires you to actively listen to the concepts. After the conference, you can apply a few of the strategies that you wrote down.
Tips for taking better notes include:
- Write legibly so you can read the notes later.
- Use a structured outline or create mind maps to document ideas.
- Take your notes by hand instead of using an electronic device.
- Use short sentences, phrases, pictures and abbreviations.
5. Give your undivided attention to the conference.
It can be tempting to try to multitask while the conference is streaming on your device. Doing other activities such as checking emails, working on a project or doing chores can prevent you from engaging with the content.
If you decide to attend the conference, go all in. Log into the conference before it begins. Put paper, pencil and water next to your device. Eliminate distractions from family members, colleagues, cell phones and pets. Focus on learning as much as you can from the speakers.
6. Take short breaks and stretch during the conference.
Sitting in front of an electronic device for several hours can make you tired. It’s okay to take a bathroom or stretch break. Be sure to move your body every 30 minutes or as much as you need to.
Stand up or walk in place if necessary. You don’t have to confine yourself to a chair or one room. Putting your body in motion throughout the conference can replenish your energy and refocus your attention.
Want more tips on how to maximize your time and build effective habits? The following resources can help.
- 15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management: The Productivity Habits of 7 Billionaires, 13 Olympic Athletes, 29 Straight-A Students and 239 Entrepreneurs by Kevin Kruse
- Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Old Ones by James Clear
- Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport
About Corporate Counsel Men of Color
Our mission at Corporate Counsel Men of Color (CCMC) is to foster diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We provide a support network for men of color in all professions including (but not limited to) legal, finance, education, medicine, healthcare, law enforcement, sales and insurance. Join CCMC to participate in career events and networking opportunities. Corporate Counsel Men of Color is a subsidiary of Corporate Counsel Women of Color.