Are Industry Events Worth It?
 

...for the average webmaster? I'm going to be in Vegas towards the end of AVN Expo for a different convention. I was thinking of extending the trip an attending AVN as well. Is it really worth the expense though?

1. What should expectations be? I had a bunch of sites way back in college (90s / 2000s). Somewhat recently I got back in the game. The game has changed significantly. I'd be there to network and learn.

2. Are smaller / local events better to attend? I don't know if these events cater more to studios, content creators, toy companies, etc.

I'd love to attend for the experience, but I want to get my money's worth. What were your experiences like?

Just sneak in through the fire escape door, or, failing that, 'lift' (steal) a badge that's been left unattended while the owners at the bar or doing blow in the toilets... Just be creative and it wont cost you a penny... :2 cents:

You used to be able to clothe yourself for like 3+ years on all the swag from shows

Yes and no . . .

My honest opinion is that the events were quasi worth attending 20 years ago. Today, they're absolutely a waste of time. My advice is that you're better off spending time with a hooker.

These days the only reason I would attend an industry event is to get a feel for where the herd mentality is going then use that information to chisel a path in the opposite direction. But you probably can figure that out by just watching what's happening on the Internet and reading the comments on here.

Before you go to an event - ask yourself what you want to get out of it then begin looking at those who attend - the seminars - the exhibits - the sponsors. If you're a webmaster and are looking for anything to boost your site but you're at a convention that is focusing on creators and OF then you'll get nothing out of it.

Sadly most are going that way - so the only benefit you may find is networking hoping to find other webmasters etc. in your area of interest. Good luck

Sounds Bleek! Maybe I'll attend a single day for the experience. XBiz may be a better fit, maybe I'll attend that next year in Miami instead.

Is it worth it? Dunno.

If you are already in town and it's not going to cost you an arm and a leg, sure, it's completely worth it. If you are going to fly across country and have five thousand dollars in airfare, transporation, hotel, food... maybe not.

On the other hand, I remember going to Mexico on one of my first trips and meeting someone who said they could send us dozens of joins a day. We got back, reached out to him, and he sent us thirty-two joins the next day. He eventually become one of our top affiliates.