Get more from Seminars and Classes

by Barbara Winter

These days there's plenty of information available via the internet covering just 
about every topic you can imagine and for a business person this is great news. 
Much of that information is being offered in the form of seminars, workshops, 
classes and, more recently, in a format known as teleclasses. 

While often we can get all the information we need by reading a book, sometimes 
attending a class away from the home or office environment is more conducive to 
the learning. 

If you've got a seminar coming up, here are some tips to help you get the most from 
the experience.

Support the teacher. No kidding. Your responses-nodding, smiling, 
responding-can encourage or discourage the seminar leader. Nonverbal 
communication like frowning can have a negative impact. Support the teacher and 
you'll have a better class.

Be ready to learn. For a few hours, leave your problems and concerns outside the 
classroom and let your sense of adventure lead you. It can be like a mini-vacation 
from your normal routine so suspend any resistance you've got and be willing to 
entertain new thoughts.

Get the best seat. Come early and take a seat right up front or at least the best 
vantage point so you can see and hear everything that's going on. Closer to the front 
has less distractions.

Take two sets of notes. Naturally you'll be taking notes from the information being 
given but you're also going to get ideas as you go along so write these down, too, so 
you can remember them later but then get back to the teaching at hand.

Take classes regularly. While expanding your knowledge and expertise can be fun 
and interesting, you'll also see your self-confidence improve, you'll be motivated 
and awakened to new ideas. While not all seminars will be equally as good, take 
your self-education seriously and you'll receive many benefits.