Darren over at Problogger is running a new group writing project; since I obviously enjoy making lists and it’s seminar/workshop/conference season, I thought I’d pull together a list of the worst behaviors I’ve seen through the years.
- Have it at a high-priced hotel you haven’t bothered to visit to determine its suitability and accessibility for your guests.
- Turn all of the work over to the paying attendees and volunteers in the name of inclusion and hope that it might look professional.
- Make a relentless point of telling everyone about the lack of structure, the absence of centralized leadership, and accountability for the conference.
- Be sure to announce to attendees that you’re broke as a result of hosting the conference. They’re sure to help out, right?
- Ensure that you’ve selected panelists and presenters on the basis of how much of your butt they kissed, not their professional credentials, and make sure they spew the party line.
- Don’t tell anyone you’re having a conference, and above all else, don’t advertise it - after all, people you don’t know may show up.
- Distribute the materials late and without organization.
- Provide attendee services only when you “feel up to it”.
- Make sure you forbid vendors and don’t let any authors or participants have commercial transactions - after all, you wouldn’t want to make money, would you?
- Show up the hour before you’re supposed to open the seminar. Nobody will notice you’re feeling rushed.
Do you have more bad behavior to add to my list? Leave it in the comments and I’ll edit as they come in.
