This morning I went to my first Burlington Vermont Social Media Breakfast (#bvtsmb).  The morning session was hosted by some local firms, PMG and Digalicious.  The topic was community management and there were two guest speakers brought in.  They were from "fast casual" burrito company Boloco (@boloco) and NBC News (@anthonyquintano).  I will be the first to admit, I am by no means a community management expert but I do dabble and enjoy it. I also see its value. 

When I attend events like this I feel that I rarely get information that is completely new.  It's more of, well thats pretty obvious or I should totally do that!  What I gathered from both of the guest speakers is that you have to try new things and not dilute the power of meeting in person.  The online world does not replace but rather compliments our relationships and brand power.  

Will I attend another? Definitely .  Here is my only minor suggestion.  When people show up, have people greet and welcome them.  I'm not yet as integrated into the social media scene in Burlington as others, so when a "newbie" shows up, welcome them.  Don't just let them grab their name tag and run off to hit keys on their iPhone. Engage them and thank them for coming.