Let me start by saying this post is not meant in any way to denigrate either of the blogging conferences that are happening next year. They’re being run by women I know, like and respect and I know a lot of thought and planning is going into them. This post is about my personal choice and I also hope it will stop everyone asking if I’m going – particularly on twitter.
So. It was after this year’s blogging conference that I came to the conclusion that these events are not for me. If you’re new to blogging or are fascinated by SEO or enjoy hearing well-known speakers then I can see the appeal. But the truth is, I got more out of the post-conference tapas and mojito session with my closest blogging mates than I did from actually attending any of the sessions.
I don’t need introductions to PRs. I’ve been a journalist for 23 years, so I don’t need advice on how or what to write from my peers. Yes, I could probably do with some extra help with SEO but you know what? That’s not why I blog. I certainly don’t need bags full of baby wipes. And I really don’t like the way bloggers who can’t afford to attend feel they’re missing out on the social events of the year (you’re not).
So next year you won’t find me at either of the blogging conferences. You might find me at a local bar afterwards, because for me one of the biggest strengths of these events is the social aspect, and I’m always happy to see my blogging friends when they’re in London. If you’re going to either event I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time, and hear some fabulous speakers.
But these events are not for me. I hope you understand.
PS Just love Him UP North’s comment! 😉
I’ve been to two (one proper and one just a day out) no I don’t need the goodie bag but I do enjoy meeting the bloggers. I’ll be lurking in the far recessess of two next year. Utterly fascinated by the goings on and thoroughly enjoying a day out! Am up for a bevvie or two during and after!
I too feel uncomfortable with the issue of those who can’t afford, either financially or timewise, feeling they miss out particularly when delegates tweet, blog and Facebook the events to death. However I feel there’s no answer to that.
I also have issues with what I perceive as trying to organise ie homogenize what is essentially an individual pursuit.
What bothers me most from your post, Liz is the revelation you’ve been a journo 23 years. What? Since you were 8?? 🙂
I completely agree with you, Liz. I’m not planning to attend either conference (unless gold bars are involved) but am always up for the mohitos! x
I have umm’d and ahh’d in the past but haven’t attended. My own blog is for me and me alone but I do also ghost write business blogs amongst other things professionally so extra seo info and more on blogging from a professional point of view could be interested. For this reason I’m going to go to the Leeds Blogcamp next year, it’s not really a conference but more geared towards info than a social event.
i could see the conferences being a hugely social experience for me (although I appreciate lots of people get much from them) and to be honest travel from N Yorks and accommodation costs etc all make for a very expensive meet up.
I’m looking forward to reading what others think and what they feel they do / could get out of conferences. Great post Liz.
I feel the same. Have not been a journalist for years and years but have plenty of PR contacts due to working in the industry for more time than I care to remember. I blog for me, don’t give a stuff about stats or SEO, or where I rank but like you, the whole social aspect is awesome.
Maybe we should hold court in a bar somewhere together?!! Mine’s a G+T.
Having failed thus far to attend any blogging conferences I’m interested in feedback about the experiences of individual attendees.
I feel a pull to attend and a desire to stay at home. I know I’d love the social side & I know how great it would be to catch up with my twitter friends.
I’m still on the fence but your blog has given me more to think about.
I’m going to one of them this year, a different one from last year 😉 I hope to catch up with friends… and I hope to not have to leave with a bag full of wet wipes.