Clear your schedule and block off your calendar during conference dates and times (just like you would for an in-person event!) Other meetings are inevitable (just as they are when you are attending an event) but don’t worry, we’ll be recording all of the concurrent and general sessions for viewing after the event! Networking sessions will not be captured for later viewing.
Check out the conference program and prioritize which sessions you want to attend -- you may want to set calendar reminders for sessions
Here is our How-To with a short video and detailed instructions on how to use the virtual platform. Once you’re registered, look at these to get acquainted with the virtual event platform.
If you don’t have it on your computer already, download the following software: Zoom and also the Google Chrome browser in advance to make the best of the conference activities!
Minimize distractions — pick a quiet spot, turn off notifications on your devices and set a “do not disturb” on your email (and maybe your door)
Do a tech check — test your audio, ensure that you have a strong WiFi connection and use a headset if possible if planning to join networking sessions.
Pay attention to your background — turn on your camera and see what your background looks like; you may wish to adjust your angle or window shades if there is too much light
Consider putting on business casual — you might feel more in the conference mood (and you’ll be camera-ready during networking time) if you dress for the occasion
Share on social media that you’re attending the conference using the event hashtag #UPCEASOLAR — it’s a great way to connect with other attendees before the conference even starts
Keep your eye out for reminder emails from UPCEA and our platform, Accelevents, with important access and other information
Make a list of your networking goals — in the virtual environment, you need to plan your networking since you can’t just bump into someone at the coffee station (think: “introduce myself to five new people” or “connect with four exhibitors”). The platform allows one-on-one as well as group chat functions in all sessions, expo, and networking areas.
Have everything you need ready before you sign on — charger(s), headphones, notebook and pen, and (of course) water, coffee/tea, and snacks
Bring your “can do” attitude and a learning mindset with you when you log on, and as many of you know, while we won’t be in person, studies show no significant difference in outcomes from in-person vs. online learning!
Are there sessions you know you don’t want to miss? Click “Add to Schedule” next to individual sessions to add them to the “My Sessions” area to better plan your schedule.
On the first day of the conference, once you’re logged in to the event platform (access is provided 30 minutes before the first session begins), update your profile with your information (like Twitter and LinkedIn profiles) to make it easier for fellow attendees to connect with you. You should also turn on the ability to accept direct messages from other attendees
Try not to multitask, and limit outside distractions so you don’t miss something important
Be an active participant and immerse yourself in the conference and content — take notes, ask questions, use the chat feature, and use the conference hashtag on social media
Build your network and join virtual hangout events — engage in conversation with other attendees in chats and messages, try Meetups (speed networking) and virtual happy hours (and don’t forget to turn your camera on!)
Connect with exhibitors and collaborate to solve the challenges you’re facing — visit exhibitor booths to learn more about the services they offer and to get in touch
Many of the system’s gamification features are directly related with high points provided to users who engage with attendees. Engage in the Expo Hall to gain an opportunity to win prizes!
Catch up with particularly engaged attendees — connect with them via the conference platform, or look them up on CORe or social media
Attending with colleagues? Share learnings during the conference or convene later as a group to share key takeaways and reinforce your knowledge
Need help? Email us at info@upcea.edu as well as call 202-659-3130 for any help! Staff also will be checking in on chats in the platform.
The event platform will allow for you to come back and revisit the conversations and sessions for 30 days following the event. After that, visit the resource library in CORe to download session slides and watch recordings
Replay or rewind it! Watch recorded sessions you may have missed
Share your learnings with colleagues and stay connected with other attendees in CORe and via social media
Speakers often provide their contact information on session slides — use it to continue the conversation after the event