Getting ROI on a Conference Like SXSW

As I am still recovering from lack of sleep and work that piled up (thankfully @lucymfel took a huge part of the work load and it is much less than expected). while I was at SXSW.  I keep getting asked on on experience at SXSW.

So in the spirit of measuring everything from a business perspective I will be monitoring the next few months on how I will get my investment back.

I have identified a few sources which might have already opened up doors or given me something tangible that works into recovering my investment at South By Southwest.

ROI of SXSW

Possible leads – although my main purpose of going to the conference was establishing relationships, learning about emerging technologies, and getting insight on what others are willing to share.  I was able to identify possible leads that might become clients.

I was also invited to work along by collaborating peers and colleagues on some of their  new projects. Eventually these relationships if handled correctly and I give them my best will bring a good return on investment in the long run.

Planning another Conference – By walking around and meeting people you are able to connect with individuals from all over the world that might be interested in what you are doing back home locally. So if you are planning a local conference with globally known resources this might be an option to connect with them and see what they think. You might be able to identify a few sponsors that might have the same interests as yours.

Swag – From T-shirts, devices, and books that I would have probably bought anyway I can clearly say I got my money’s worth. Some of the books I was able to get a hold off was @garyvee’s new book the “ The Thank You Economy
”, @stevegarfield’s “ Get Seen: Online Video Secrets to Building Your Business (New Rules Social Media Series)
” , various copies of @zappos ” Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose
(which I will pass along to friends), @guykawasaki’s “ Enchantment: The Art of Changing Hearts, Minds, and Actions
” and a few other books which I can’t recall because I had to send via mail but will be reviewing on this blog.

Non-Financial – Not everything can be quantified in dollars and cents although it can be very valuable. The opportunity of connecting with very bright and intelligent people helps you in establishing quality contacts that will add to your efforts in the future. So much knowledge is captured by talking to people that are doing different things that you can relate with. So many ideas where sparked during conversations or listening to sessions and keynotes. The real value is in the experience you got from being at SXSW.

Overall SXSW was a great experience in which I got to spend time with so many people that had very different interests but one or two interests which where in my avenue of approach. I can wait till I plan my next SXSW and or conference.

What things do you get out of the events or conferences you attend?