So, you’re deciding whether or not to attend BlogWorld & New Media Expo 2010. If you do any sort of blogging, media creation or podcasting this should be a no-brainer, you’ve got to be here. I’ve been to each of the BlogWorld conferences. My first was in 2007 when I went as part of the FuelMyBlog team. I was pretty overwhelmed by how many people were there and excited, energized and enthused by the bubbling creativity that was all around me. At that first conference, I have to admit, I didn’t take nearly enough risks. I didn’t put myself out there as much as I should and I missed major opportunities to make great friends.

What have I learned, by attending BlogWorld year after year, is that you have to make a point to talk with everyone. Each person attending this conference can learn something from you or teach you something. So it stands to reason that each person that you come in contact with can be part of a fantastic exchange of knowledge. If you go in with an open mind, ears and heart you are going to make some truly epic connections.

For instance you are waiting in line for some wake up fuel (The Starbucks at the convention center was great for this) you are there with other conference goers. Rather than standing around quietly waiting for you Double Soy Vente Caramel Machiato you take a moment to say hello to someone from the conference. Maybe ask them, what did you think of the opening keynote? Something to get the conversation started. And then here is the trick. Truly listen. Don’t whip out your phone and tweet while they give their response. You have this moment to make a great connection. Take that moment and make the most out of every second. Who knows, you might just be meeting you future business partner, podcasting co-host or good friend.

On the flip side you might meet someone that you have absolutely nothing in common with. Don’t give up though, think about all the people that you know and have met. Could there be someone who would be a perfect fit for this new acquaintance? Connecting others is almost more important than making your own connections because when you make solid connections for other people they are going to remember that you were the one who introduced them to their new friend, business partner or even spouse. Social Networking isn’t just about making money it is about making meaningful connections with others. Remember that as you talk to each person.

When I was at BlogWorld Expo in 2008 I met Bruce from Cart-Away. Bruce stood out and so did his giant tow behind cement mixer. Bruce and his team came to Blog World to see what social media was all about. I was curious as to why they were at the conference so I went over and talked with Bruce. He was very enthusiastic about how his company could use social media and was willing to talk to everyone who came by his booth. Bruce wanted to learn and make connections and I think that worked out really well for him because he was back the next year with a new company very focused on social media. So, who knows, Blog world just may change the way you look at life.

You never know who you are going to meet at Blog World and New Media Expo so talk with everyone because everyone has a story to tell.

Andrew Bennett has been blogging for the past seven years. During that time he’s taken over 1800+ photos on as many consecutive days and has attended every Blog World so far. When he’s not on Twitter (@BenSpark) he can be found at BenSpark.com or I’m Not A Famous Blogger. You can contact him at benspark@benspark.com.