Ideas + Inspiration + Collaboration

September 13, 2010 Jillian Koeneman 140conf, ted, tedxdetroit blog

As a marketer and an entrepreneur, it’s my job to ALWAYS be learning new things. I am not sure if I’d really consider it a “job” however since I ADORE learning.

Because my clients are diverse in terms of their areas of expertise (think law firms to fashion boutiques) I am constantly finding ways to broaden my knowledge about the world in which we work and play.

One of the most impactful learning experiences I have been exposed to has been through events like TEDx and Jeff Pulver’s 140 Characters Conferences. These events blend ideas, inspiration, and collaboration into one-day life changing learning opportunities that are worth their weight in gold.

Ideas

For those of you who have never been to one of these conferences, they are packed full of powerful speakers sharing fresh ideas and inspiration. A committee selects a group of presenters with dynamic backgrounds and stories to tell. The presenters are limited to 10-15 min each. Some speakers will make you laugh and others will make you cry, but all will leave your mind spinning with ideas.

Inspiration

Everyone who presents at these conferences is inspiring. Whether they have overcome seemingly impossible odds to get to where they are or are impacting our world for the better, you will be truly inspired and looking for ways that you can make a positive difference.

Collaboration

Long before the event the conversations between speakers and attendees start taking place on social networks like Facebook and Twitter.  Also during the conference event organizers create opportunities for speakers and attendees to meet one another face-to-face. Relationships are formed and collaborations are sparked.

I highly encourage you to consider attending one or both of these conferences in your area. They are well worth the time and financial investment. I will be attending my second TEDx conference, TEDxDetroit and my first 140 Conference Detroit later this month.

It’s my dream to speak one day at both of these conferences!