5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of A Workshop

Whether you’re looking to familiarize yourself with modern-day marketing, learn everything there is to know about WordPress or simply connect with like-minded crafty or food bloggers, there’s a workshop out there for you. Looking to take your own business, brand or website to the next level? Making the most of your next workshop is crucial, which is why we’re grateful for the following tips and tricks from The Bloom Workshop‘s co-founders, Michaela Warner and Ashley Slater—creative entrepreneurs in their own right! For a list of creative workshops coming in 2015 (some as soon as next week!), visit The B Bar.

Five ways to get the most out of a workshop, by Michaela & Ashley:

1. Make sure you’re attending a conference that doesn’t end when the workshop day does. Find one that builds lasting community and continues education. We have smaller workshops that are meant to hone other creative skills, as well as a Facebook group where past attendees can stay in touch and share tips, successes and questions. We’re also currently working to implement weekly newsletters with important business and blogging tips and tricks for our past attendees.

2. There are so many workshops out there, so be sure you choose one that will truly benefit your business. We caution against attending a workshop that is merely for networking and inspiration. Those are both amazing aspects to in-person workshops, but when you’re paying money for a workshop, you want one that’s heavy on teaching—this way, you can go home with new tools and skills to actually improve your business, blog or craft! Asking past members or even emailing the founders or hosts of the workshops you’re interested in is a great way to connect and find out a little more about the bulk of the workshop. We love receiving emails from potential guests who want to find out more about Bloom.

3. Go in with an open mind, willing to learn new things and to see business and blogging from a different perspective. Soak up absolutely everything you can!

4. Be bold and ask questions. We absolutely love our Q&A panel at the end of each workshop—and so do our attendees! It’s proven to be one of the most beneficial parts of our day. We bring in at least four people who are very talented and seasoned in their industry—interior designers, photographers, event planners, graphic designers, blogging gurus, etc. Guests can write down their questions throughout the workshop, and we answer all of them at the end. We know how important it is to have rock stars from these creative spheres answering guests’ burning questions! There’s so much to learn.

5. We encourage people to make business goals every few months! If you’re looking at potential workshops to attend, choose one that will help you meet at least one of those goals. If you’ve already chosen a workshop, consciously take in all the information presented and continually ask yourself how you might apply it to your goals.

Written by Carrie Waller
Photos by Ashley Slater Photography