Fresh off the AAJ Winter Conference and several other incredible professional gatherings, I can say one thing for sure: nothing replaces being in the room.
Over the past few years, we’ve all grown comfortable with virtual meetings. Zoom has been an incredible tool—one that I personally championed during the pandemic to bring our community together in the Women’s Caucus. It has kept us connected, productive, and engaged in ways we never imagined. But after spending time face-to-face with my peers, sharing ideas over coffee (or something a little stronger), and engaging in real-time discussions, I’m reminded of how in-person connection offers a different kind of energy and impact.
The Magic of Being in the Room
When you step into a conference or professional event, something shifts. There’s an energy in the air that you just can’t replicate through a screen. Conversations flow more naturally, ideas spark in ways that feel effortless, and—let’s be honest—it’s a lot harder to get distracted by emails when you’re in the middle of an engaging discussion.
At AAJ Winter and other recent gatherings, I had the chance to talk with colleagues I hadn’t seen in years, meet new faces who are shaping the future of our field, and sit in on discussions that left me feeling inspired and recharged. Whether it was a panel, a networking session, or just a hallway chat, each moment reinforced why physically showing up matters.
Learning That Sticks
Webinars and virtual sessions are invaluable, allowing us to access knowledge from anywhere, but there’s something about being in a room full of engaged professionals that makes the learning stick. At these events, we don’t just absorb information—we question, challenge, and apply it right away. A casual remark from a colleague can spark a whole new perspective. A speaker’s insight can lead to an action plan before you even leave the room. That’s the kind of impact that lasts.
The Unexpected Benefits of Being Present
Beyond the scheduled sessions, it’s the spontaneous moments that make in-person events invaluable. The deep conversation over dinner. The unexpected introduction that turns into a collaboration. The pep talk from a mentor that reignites your motivation. These are the things that can’t be planned—but they happen because we show up.
A Balance of Both Worlds
Technology has made our lives easier and has been a game-changer for accessibility and inclusion, allowing more people to engage in discussions and learning opportunities. But we also need to embrace those moments when we can step away from the screen and immerse ourselves in face-to-face interactions that build deeper relationships, inspire innovation, and reenergize us in ways that virtual spaces sometimes can’t.
So, if you’ve been debating whether to attend that next conference, networking event, or industry gathering—go for it. Take the trip, sit in the room, shake the hands. You never know what connections, ideas, or inspiration might come from simply showing up.
I know I’ll be making it a priority. Hope to see you out there soon!