By Heather MacKinnon, WBA executive vice president and general counsel
Heather MacKinnon
WBA events are well known for their programming, but don’t overlook the opportunity to meet the member sitting right next to you or visiting an exhibit booth. This is one of the biggest benefits of attending WBA events and conferences — to connect with other WBA members, including associate members.
I’m old enough to remember the days of adding business cards to a Rolodex. I still have one tucked away in my desk drawer as I try to adjust to today’s modern tools of adding contacts in my phone, making connections on professional networking sites, and following speakers via a QR code posted at the end of a presentation.
Elsewhere in this publication, you will find a list of upcoming schools, conferences, and other events hosted by WBA, all of which offer the opportunity for attendees to connect with other members. I encourage everyone to take advantage of networking breaks and receptions strategically planned by the WBA Education staff and banker planning committees. Introduce yourself, swap stories, and make a connection with a fellow WBA member.
Whatever form your “Rolodex” takes, make it a goal this autumn to add a few new names while attending a WBA event. Be an active participant and engage with a fellow Wisconsin banker and associate member. Let WBA help expand your network.
