The hallway track

Her comment was simultaneously familiar and stunning: “This is where the real learning happens,” said my friend as we made the long trek from one end of the convention center to another. We had just emerged from a compelling general session and were discussing the content of the keynoter’s presentation. The more we talked, the more our conversation escalated to higher and higher levels of meaning, insight and relevance. What might have appeared as pointless chit-chat to pass the time between halls of the convention center was actually the spark that elicited a greater understanding of how I could apply what the keynoter had just talked about.

I’ve always been a firm believer in the power of conversation and peer-to-peer learning. The most revelatory moments in my personal and professional life have more often come long conversations with colleagues and friends, and less frequently in dim rooms, with merely the glow of the PowerPoint to light the pen and notepad. Yet to hear Mary’s comment validated my belief.

There’s plenty of space in the agenda of VAR’s Convention & Expo. I call it “the hallway track.” Make the best use of this breathing room by comparing notes with your fellow members and eliciting their take on presentations. The speakers will be spectacular, but you might just get the best idea of the convention from the person sitting next to you.