Recently, I was chatting with a few people at a conference. The debate was whether or not people who attend conferences are really there for business or if they just come to “play”—it got me to thinking of the old adage that “business should come before pleasure.” I can’t help but think it comes down to balance and that quite a bit of “business” and networking can occur in the midst of entertainment and pleasure.
I don’t agree that most people attend work functions, networking events and conferences just for the “pleasure” part. I really do believe that we are motivated by making improvements in our work world, making our businesses, and marketing—but that doesn’t mean that there is not an element of social to these functions either. I think that in many cases, business and pleasure can go hand-in-hand, we just have to stay in control and keep the focus on what is best for our businesses.
As a matter of fact, I think that when evaluating networking and business conferences, many people take into account the entire package—the classes or workshops being offered, networking and social opportunities, exhibitors and participants, and the area (city, country, etc.). More and more, I think, people are trying to dovetail work and business conferences and obligations with personal vacations, visits, and pleasure. The entire opportunity has to be a benefit for a busy person to take his or her time to attend an event.
As a home business owner, you may be on many sides of this “business before pleasure” reality. You may be one of those people trying to decide if a conference or workshop is worth your time—either as an exhibitor, participant or speaker; or you may be trying to figure out if your own business operations are balanced in terms of business and pleasure (too much networking or not enough? Are you only socializing with a few people or spreading yourself around? Is there a way you can make going to the theatre or buying symphony or sports tickets another way to promote your business?) I think it is all about creativity and balance—not pleasure in place of business.
Also: Presenting and Teaching at Workshops and Conferences
How Many Conferences Should You Attend a Year (If Any?)
Balancing Business and Pleasure