kdollar

This is written by an AM who has been in the gambling industry for years.

The best conference to attend (affiliate gambling)…mmmmm…they are all pretty good in their own kind of way to be honest.

If you are looking at biggest attendance numbers from operators, providers, affiliates and media, then there is no doubt about it when it comes to the London Affiliate Conference. Definitely the conference with the biggest numbers, perhaps because it is the most central location of them all. For starters, there are tons of industry people from all sides headquartered and residing in the UK, so even without the others from around the world, it would still get good attendance.

Recently, it has been the one with the closest venue from the hotel and to the downtown action… nothing more annoying than having to take cabs, shuttles, subways, or walk long distances to reach the convention center, the bars/live, and the hotel. It also has the English language… easy for the travelers, especially when it comes to getting the proper bill without being ripped-off… although the pounds are heavy on the spending just as they are too… damn!!

It has been one of the longest standing conferences, and nowadays, people just expect it as a must attend show – where, even if you only travel once per year, this is the conference where you will once again see some friends and partners, as well as meet tons more. Numbers attract more numbers…

With that said, going to other conferences is great too… you get to tour a different city or re-visit one, take a break from work, have some fun, and hopefully learn some new tricks and information from the speakers. One thing is for sure; you will definitely be able to get better deals and business done. Meeting people in person from any side will establish a relationship together – especially if it is a casual meeting, drinks, laughs, etc… You will make a friend, and you’ll get more favors or at least, a loyal dedication and help from them. You get trust from them and vice versa… so go, meet new people, network, chat, and keep in touch always and with everyone… good things will only come from it in the future – with business or personal life.

Sure, not everyone is into drinking, partying, and spending needed cash for travel when you can still email between each other, use the phone, or just be working more, but again, it’s all about setting-up a stronger relationship. The stronger this partnership gets, the more you will be able to learn from each other, as well as help each other – with better deals, positioning, commission, tools, what works and what doesn’t, dinner invites, entertainment, etc… If anything, going to one or two per year is a good choice – just look at which one might be cheaper for you if you are just starting, or which one you will get the most out of in all aspects covered above.

Remember, having fun is part of the business/industry too, and a great way to break the ice with everyone – so don’t feel guilty for investing some of your money on one or two conferences or industry meet-ups per year.

----

I plan to go to the London Conference again this year to talk with am's about my newest project Online Blackjack. Though, I am sure the Budapest conference will be a good one as I heard good things last year, I just lagged on booking.