Never been to a blogger event before? It’s a fantastic way to network, meet new people who share your passion for blogging, learn new tips and tricks, and show your interest in working with brands.
Blogging events happen throughout the year, some free and some costing hundreds of pounds, with many tailored to the level of experience of the blogger. If you’re serious about becoming a full-time blogger and monetising your blog, then forking out for an event ticket can be really advantageous, and will hopefully pay off!
It’s handy to know how the day will unfold in order to get the most from the experience!
Before the event
Let others know you’re going through your social media channels, and make sure to find out what hashtag the event will be using on Twitter to discover other bloggers who will be in attendance, and maybe any news on the event before it takes place.
Consider having business cards made for your blog, consistently designed and branded of course. This is will make it much easier to swap details with other bloggers, and will ensure your new blogging friends have the necessary means to contact you.
At the event
The key with networking is to not be shy! Get chatting to other bloggers and share stories and experiences. If you’re new to the blogging game, a chat with an experienced blogger can be really beneficial, as the key thing to remember is that you don’t always see growth overnight – this shouldn’t be discouraging, and hearing other people’s stories and advice will always give you a boost of confidence.
Most blogging events will provide refreshments, yet be prepared for some of these refreshments to be provided from the bar at a cost – it’s worth noting that events can get costly if you’re on a tight budget, especially if you have to factor in travel and accommodation costs. Check with others who have been to the event before or email the organisers to understand if snacks and drinks will be provided free of charge.
Attend as many of the guest speaker slots as you can, and don’t be afraid of practical workshops – this can be the most hands-on way of learning about how to take your blog to the next level.
If you’re interested in learning something specific then keep this in mind when at the event, and if it’s not covered in speaker talks, ask a question! Don’t be shy – these events are all about engagement with the industry.
Remember to have a good chat with lots of other bloggers and pick up a goody bag on your way out!
After the event
Hopefully you’ll be leaving with a strong desire to go straight home and work on your blog, implementing some of the advice and tips that you’ve heard at the event! Keep in contact with those who you met, comment on their blogs and engage with the speakers at the event through their blogs and social channels.
Blogger events will also provide you with several new ideas for content on your own blog – write a review of the day, a photo essay, a review of your goody bag, mention new blogs you’ll be reading or list the things you learnt!
Been to several or looking to find your first one to go to? Please let us know your experiences with blogger events in the comments below & share guidance and tips with your fellow bloggers!
Great post! What is the best way or website to find out about beauty blogger events? Xx
Hi Rachel, thanks very much!
Blogging Edge provide a list of blogger events and meetups here – http://bloggingedge.com/blogger-events/
Pop Goes Fashion has a nice post on how to be invited to Beauty Blogger events here – http://popgoesfashion.com/how-to-get-invited-to-fashion-and-beauty-blogger-events/
Plus, Cosmo recently covered blogging events in this article [with a small mention of The Blogger's Lounge too ;)], and this post covers some of the bigger, more expensive blogging events and workshops that take place through the year – http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/worklife/careers/a28532/how-to-be-successful-blogger-workshops/
I hope you find one you like the sound of soon!
Suzy x
Hi! Problogger will be my 1st conference and I can’t wait. But I’m equal parts nerves.
I loved Rachel’s Q too. Great links. Thanks!
Amber at Adventures of a Rainbow Mama x
Hi Amber, lovely blog by the way. Problogger looks very interesting, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time! Chatting to lots of other bloggers at the event will calm the nerves! Let us know how you got on x
great post! I’d love to go to an event but I don’t live near to where they are ever held.. if only i lived in London haha! x
http://rachelcoco.blogspot.co.uk
Yes it’s true, most events like this are held in London – but you could always make a weekend of it with one of the events in the capital?
Or here’s an article about organising your own meet ups in your area! http://www.bonjourblogger.com/resources/how-to-organise-an-event/
Another great post! I’m a fairly new blogger and would love to know where would be the best place to find out about blogging events? Specifically fashion and interiors and/or art if there is one? Thanks!
Thanks Alicia! Going to an event will be a really good way to meet other bloggers and get loads of advice. Here’s a nice post on ways to find out about blogger events- http://popgoesfashion.com/how-to-get-invited-to-fashion-and-beauty-blogger-events/