About a month ago, I had the privilege to not only participate, but also help organize a global conference on a local level. It was an invaluable learning experience for me. I made new contacts, gained new skills and helped produce an event that would best be described as a success.

Takeaways:

• Weekly meetings keep the group on track.
• Always communicate with the group so everyone is on the same page.
• If you think you are planning early enough, you probably are not. Work ahead of schedule.
• Holidays and time off make keeping things moving difficult.
• Anticipate problem and plan for them in advance.
• Secure the venue ASAP because so many other factors are determined by booking the venue.