As a freelance paralegal, I have stressed how beneficial attending conferences has been. I even had a whole webinar on it….yes, silent but not so silent plug. But seriously, conferences can get overwhelming and costly. Some people don’t like to attend conferences for many reasons and they are all valid. I will tell you, if you are able to attend one or are feeling on edge about whether or not to attend I can give some insight as to why you should attend:

For one reason, it is an investment in you

When you attend a conference, you’re not just checking a box—you’re investing in your growth. It shows you’re serious about your field, your skills, and your future. Whether your company is paying for it or you’re footing the bill yourself, think of it as a professional tune-up. I remember reading from high named business owner’s about how they built there million dollar business and a lot of them started with the simple process of investing in themselves. Even when they had nothing. When I first starting attending conferences I didn’t see it as an investment. I didn’t know what to think of it besides maybe finding some new tech that would make things flow easier. As mindset changed, I started to understand how my attendance was in fact an investment.

Other people just like you are attending

It’s one thing to have a lot of industry connections online. It’s another to meet people face-to-face with people who truly get what you do. You meet potential collaborators, mentors, or even future clients at conferences because so many people with aligned goals or interests attend. You don’t need to “network” in the traditional sense—just be yourself and have real conversations.

A Break From Your Desk (and Your Routine)

Let’s be honest: As paralegals we need a reason to step away from our screens and shake things up. Attending a conference can give you a healthy break from your regular grind, while still being productive. Annnd you get might even find a conference that is out of state or even out of the country and that’s always a great tax write-off right?? -_- kidding…kinda….You’ll return with new energy and, often, a fresh perspective.