One thing that I’m passionate about as a business owner is continuing education. I think it’s extremely important to challenge yourself, continue to learn, and never assume that you know everything about the industry you’re in. That’s why I budget in time and money each year for at least one workshop or conference. When I first started attending photography workshops, I remember being so nervous and  unsure of myself. Was I bringing the right things? What should I wear? Had I chosen the right workshop? Would it be worth my time and money?

After attending several workshops and planning my own for this fall (aspiring film photographers – check out the Arise Film Workshop), I have some tips to share! Here’s I’ve learned about choosing and attending workshops:

1. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.

Most of the workshop attendees will also be showing up knowing nobody in the room so don’t be afraid to say hello first. Pretend like it’s the first day of school all over again. I know it’s scary and you’ll have to step out of your comfort zone, but people remember when others approach them and make them feel less alone. So why not make someone else feel more comfortable? Come prepared with some conversation starters and just walk up to the first person you see who looks lonely – they’ll be so grateful and you’ll be happy to have a friend!

Another tip: if you see someone you’ve followed online and want to talk to them, do it! Don’t feel embarrassed to say that you love their work or you’ve been following them for years. That’s such a compliment and they’ll be so happy you said hi!

2. If you bring nothing else, don’t forget to bring something to take notes with!

This may be an obvious tip, but I worry that it could get overlooked with all the other things you’ll have to consider. You’re investing in and attending a workshop to learn, right? So don’t forget to bring something to write down all the educational goodness that you’ll receive! Especially if this is longer than a one-day workshop, there will be a lot of information so please don’t try to remember it all! Bring a laptop, bring a notebook, bring some loose paper – just bring something!

3. Dress comfortably, if that’s appropriate.

Often times I over-think this aspect of attending a workshop. I worry about how I’ll look and what everyone else will be wearing – it’s a weakness of mine. But more often than not, you’ll want to dress comfortably. You’ll most likely be sitting for much of the time and you won’t want to be messing with uncomfortable fabric or tight clothing. Keep in mind the type of workshop you’re going to. Is it a professional networking event? Maybe in that case you’ll want to wear something more “business-y.” Is it an education-intensive 3 day conference where you’ll be sitting in a chair and taking notes for most of the day? If so,  you’ll definitely want to wear something “lounge-y” but still presentable. The workshop’s website or event page will often specify how you should dress so check there first!

4. Do your research.

Again, this may be obvious, but please do your research before choosing a workshop to attend! Don’t jump in on a workshop just because you see others going. Don’t choose one that’s not a great fit just because you think you HAVE to attend one every single year. This is an investment and you should treat it as such. If this is a repeat workshop, ask others who’ve attended in the past. Don’t be afraid to email the hosts to ask any and all questions before paying the registration fee. Read all the information on their site or social media – make sure it’s exactly what you’re looking for! There’s no rush, you don’t have to attend a certain amount of workshops, and you should feel great about your decision!

I really hope this post was helpful to you in choosing the perfect educational opportunities for your business! Please feel free to comment below with questions or additional things you’ve learned from attending workshops over the years! If you need a bit more direction on attending or organizing an event, click HERE to head over to Eventbrite’s website.