Top 5 Reasons To Attend ATD 2019
The top 5 reasons why I will be flying to Washington D.C., USA for the ATD’s International Conference & Expo 2019 along with 10,000 other learning colleagues are:
1. Keynoters
Oprah and Seth Godin are the headliners this year and I’m sure will not disappoint. There is something about the power of an auditorium of learning professionals being moved by the same message. I’m looking forward to both. Eric Whitacre is the closing keynote and although I haven’t heard of his work before his website looks fascinating.
2. Connections
I love the network of international learning individuals I am able to connect with each year at the ATD, being part of a delegation and building deeper relationships from this part of the world is also really rewarding. Another bonus is meeting people who I have only ever ‘met’ on Twitter before. The synchronicity of bumping into people and chatting in the coffee queue shouldn’t be underestimated either- you never know where they will lead.
3. Opportunities for Business
Without a doubt, the ATD conference is full of learning and new ideas. I find it crucial to get away, reflect, and think strategically in such a rich learning environment. Every year I attend our products and services improve because of it and of course – you can’t beat the networking for new business generation.
4. The Expo
The expo hall is immense at ATD and really needs to be seen to be believed. It’s always great to see what others are doing and explore cutting edge new ideas in the learning world each year. I use the conference app to plan what stands I MUST see but I also love just wandering through and stumbling upon random gems.
5. Washington
Who could resist a trip to the US Capital? It’s such a great city and must be worth extending the stay for. The breadth of museums and galleries available is outstanding. In previous years I have visited The International Spy Museum, quirky but really good fun, the National Air and Space Museum and The National Gallery of Art. Can’t wait to see where the conference networking night will be this time – always a conference highlight showcasing the city and a good chance to dance the night away.
So bring on 2019 – I can’t wait. Hope to see you there!
Are you based in Australia or New Zealand and thinking about heading to ATD 2019?
Marie Daniels from Bayer and I will be leading the ANZ Delegation at ATD 2019. Contact us for the delegation code for reduced registration rates, regional networking opportunities and access to other delegation-only resources or if you want to know more.