1. No one really cares what you’re wearing. Promise.
2. Don’t be afraid to go up to people and introduce yourself, especially if you see someone on their own.
3. It’s OK to wander in and out of sessions. As long as you don’t trip over someone’s goody bag.
4. Some bloggers are much more shy in real life than they seem on twitter. At first. It doesn’t last.
5. Take business cards – not for other bloggers, but for the PRs you’ll meet.
6. Take LOTS of tissues for the Crowdsourced Keynote. And waterproof mascara. And a mirror.
7. Try to remember where you’ve left your goody bag. They all look alike.
8. It’s a good idea to eat something at lunch and in the afternoon, even if you’re really really excited, and especially if you plan to party afterwards.
9. If you have a weak bladder, take a spare pair of knickers.
10. Journalists are always journalists, even when they’re also bloggers.
So those are my top 10 tips. If you went last year, what would you add?
And if you’re not sure what Cybermummy is, you can find details here.
Thanks this was very useful! Just got my tickets last minute for Britmumslive 2012 – aghhh where will I get business cards from.
I would add, Liz, and not just because I’ve organised a fair few junkets myself, but…
If something happens you don’t like, tell the organisers privately. Give them a chance to fix it or to apologise. Many man hours and oodles of effort went into making a conference happen and you’re seeing only a teeny tiny part of it.
Yes, you should be happy because you are a paying customer, but it’s not a lot to ask and shows a little consideration for the people who made it all happen.
This assumes, of course, you have a genuine complaint you’d like resolved. Doesn’t answer those who just want to kick the dirt, regardless.
I would only add don’t blow the weekend budget in Boots buying stuff you really don’t need. *Cough*
[…] and putting faces to some of the names on Twitter. I’ve read the list of things I need to do as a CM virgin and I’ve got my ICAW business cards printed. I’ve also had to come up with a plan for pumping […]
Or two pairs of knickers….
And, don’t be afraid to run around screaming, even if you’re one of the ones who started out shy.
And, don’t feel that you have to agree to review every product every PR hands you – they’re doing their job so feel free to do yours too and say no if it’s a breast pump and you have an 8 year old.
That is DEFINITELY one of the best parts of Cybermummy!
I would add – Remember everyone is JUST as nervous as you are!
And, watch how much stuff you gather from the brands and PRs… you’ve still got to lug those goody bags back home, and they get bloody heavy!!!
And… Relax and have a great time (enjoy the rare kid-free day!!) xx
Re point 3… following feedback from last years CyberMummy goodies bags will now be handed out as you leave, so I’d suggest bringing a spare cotton shopping bag (or last years CM bag) for all the goodies you’ll pick up during the day!
See you all in 3 weeks!!
Sian,
That’s fantastic news Sian!
*starts searching for oversized holdall*
Oh, brilliant! Great idea.
LOL. I have to say if you do go between sessions do it very quietly pretty please.
VERY quietly. And without giggling.
So excited and nervous I can’t wait, but it is that nervous excitement like you first day of Uni or work when you don’t know anyone. Got all those acessories covered including the spare knickers just in case! How on earth do you choose what sessions to attend?
make sure you plan your sessions carefully so you don’t miss anything
ROFL at number 9. Maybe they should include spare knickers in the goodie bags if it’s such an issue!
I don’t think it’s a widespread issue.
What do you mean when you say “journalists will always be journalists even when they are bloggers”? It sounds a little sinister LOL
Why nothing Nickie *looks shiftily from side to side* nothing at all.
I was coming to ask exactly the same thing. 😉
*worried now* *note to self- watch what I say* 😉
Thank you so much! This post does help me to feel a little bit less nervous.
23 days!
I know! 23 days! Welcome x
Hi! It looks like Cybermummy 11 is going to be great! This is a great set of tips, it’s always hard when you are new. I only started my blog 4 months ago and I’m just beginning to feel confident in this “world”, but unfortunately it’s all a little too late as I have now missed out on getting a ticket. I will keep my eyes open for next year and will reread this post if I manage to get my hands on one. I hope you all have a great time!
Thanks so much – and I do hope you make it next year
Roffling at the ‘weak bladder’ bit. Surely the Tena Lady Lady will be in attendance?
I do hope so. Not for me, obviously *cough*