There never seems to be enough time. We do our best to use it wisely and make the best choices, but when does it make sense to leave our busy schedules, hectic positions and responsibilities to participate in a conference? Are they worth our precious time? Does it make sense if we have to travel to another state, across country or even sometimes to a foreign country? Is it beneficial for the travel expenditure and accommodations?

Creditors say YES!

It is the most wonderful way to meet people and locate companies in the industry. "It's the best way to not just find a collection agency, but, more importantly, the right agency," said a creditor at the ACA Conference in Washington, DC. Networking is extremely important. Creditors can meet and speak with collection agencies in a friendly atmosphere of smiling and welcoming faces.

What really are their other resources? The telephone? Yes, it is a very nice and handy invention that we rely on when it is the only way to talk with and locate others. We even have small ones that fit in our pocket and we can speak anywhere, as long as we have a signal, of course. But, think about it. Do you prefer to speak with your friends through a machine or face to face? Isn't it more personal to shake their hand and sit and converse with them? It is how you really get to know someone and if they are someone that you want to know and more importantly, do business with! There is no comparison.

Why do people interview candidates for jobs? How often does someone hire a potential employee over the phone? It simply doesn't happen, because it isn't good enough. If employers don't want to take a chance hiring a voice, why would they hire an entire company that way?

Walking through the halls at the ACA Conference I found myself surrounded by technology. It's the best way to keep up to date on the latest software in the industry. Each exhibitor has demonstrations and visuals that make the most complex system seem simple. It is a hands-on way of seeing and exploring your options.

"We went to develop relationships with collection companies and to figure out what they need for us to serve them more efficiently," said a Branch Manager of an International Bank.

Of course, a great amount of participants and exhibitors are vendors. "I have so many leads that I would never have gotten if I weren't here," David Stein, President of Malcolm S. Gerald and Associates, Inc.

Credit and collection conferences are comprised of a wonderful network of professionals contributing to each other's success in a jovial atmosphere. It's an industry where the vendor desires the creditor and the creditor desires the perfect vendor for their corporation. By meeting each other in a personal and affable environment, it makes a creditor's search and success much easier!

Don't forget the captivating and informative lectures and seminars. Just when you thought you knew everything, you learn something new that has a great impact on your success. You never know whom you are going to meet and how valuable your time will be spent! It’s worth it.

When the final day of the conference arrived, it was time to say goodbye. I know I wasn't the only one to go home with a wonderful experience. Whether you arrived as a creditor or a vendor; you are sure to leave with clients, contacts, leads, an education, and new friends. And don't worry about the drive or flight home...there are always plenty of give-away stress balls and other fun gadgets to keep you entertained!