Attending a sales conference is a lot like closing a deal: you need the right preparation, a killer game plan, and a little bit of charm to make it all work. And when it comes to SUMMIT, you’re not just showing up to sit through panels; you’re there to level up your skills, expand your network, and leave with enough insights to crush your sales goals.
But let’s be real—conferences can be overwhelming (and occasionally freezing cold). So, to make sure you thrive at SUMMIT, we’ve put together this survival guide packed with tips and tricks to get you prepped for three days of high-energy sales action!
1. Pack Like a Pro
A well-prepared salesperson is a successful salesperson. Before you step into the conference, make sure your sales survival kit includes:
- Notebook & Pen – You’re about to get so much sales wisdom that you’ll need to write faster than Dwight Schrute closing a deal.
- Business Cards – Because scribbling your LinkedIn on a napkin is so 2005.
- Pro tip: Use digital business cards where prospects can save your full contact information.
- Portable Charger – No battery = No LinkedIn connects = No bueno.
- Breath Mints – Networking is great. Coffee breath? Not so much.
2. Dress for Conference Room Chill & Outdoor Heat
One moment, you’re freezing in an air-conditioned conference room. The next, you’re networking outside in the sunshine. Welcome to SUMMIT, where temperature swings are just part of the experience.
What to wear?
- Layers! Bring a light sweater, blazer, or jacket—unless you want to spend your sessions shivering like you’re starring in an episode of Survivor: Sales Edition.
- Breathable clothing for those outdoor networking events. You don’t want to be sweating through your sales pitch.
3. Network Like a Boss
Sure, the speakers will be amazing, but let’s be honest—networking is where the magic happens. Here’s how to make meaningful connections (without the awkward small talk).
- Be bold. Be confident. Introduce yourself even if your inner monologue is panicking.
- Find your conference squad early. We’ll be your hype team and connect you with the right people before the networking happy hour rolls around.
- Ron Swanson wisdom: Skip small talk. Go for real questions that lead to big business.
Best Icebreaker Questions to Use at SUMMIT:
- “What’s the best sales tip you’ve ever received?”
- “What’s been your biggest sales win this year?”
- “If you could give your younger sales self one piece of advice, what would it be?”
4. Fuel for the Hustle
Long days. Back-to-back sessions. Nonstop conversations. Your energy levels will be tested, and only the strong (and caffeinated) will survive.
- Coffee: It’s not just a drink; it’s your lifeline. (Stanley from The Office would approve.)
- Water: Sales is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay hydrated, or risk sounding like a dried-out cold call.
- Snacks: No one closes deals while hangry. Keep a protein bar handy.
5. Play the Long Game
A successful conference isn’t just about what happens during the event but how you follow up afterward.
- Send follow-ups before the conference ends. Don’t wait a week to email your new contacts—reach out while the convo is fresh.
- Ted Lasso mindset: “Be curious, not judgmental.” You never know which random connection could lead to your next big deal.
- Connect on LinkedIn. Bonus points if you personalize your request with something you talked about.
Final Rule: HAVE FUN! 🎉
You’re not just attending another conference—you’re stepping into an event designed to make you better at what you do.
- Soak up the insights.
- Meet people who inspire you.
- Take a moment to enjoy the journey.