2021 Annual Meeting FAQs

FAQs

2021 Annual Meeting

How does a virtual conference work?

It’s simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll be all set to enjoy our first-ever virtual conference. 

1. After Registration

About a week before the meeting starts you’ll be sent all the information you need to take full advantage of the conference—including key tips on making the most of your networking time. We’ll also send you reminders as the conference approaches.

2. Mark Your Calendar

Set aside February 2 to 4 so you can participate live, and connect with speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and colleagues in real time.

3. Log In

When the day comes, log in via the online portal to access live conference sessions, colleague networking, exhibit hall displays and sponsors, and more—all from the comfort of your home.

4. Enjoy the Show

This year’s virtual Annual Meeting is like a regular conference, but online. You can still visit display booths, talk with speakers, win prizes, and connect with old and new colleagues. 

For the best experience, we recommend participating from a desktop or laptop with reliable, high-speed internet access. You can also link up to the conference through your smartphone or tablet, taking virtual sessions on-the-go. During sessions, you will be able to connect to the audio via your computer or phone. For the interactive portions of sessions, networking events, and exhibit hall, we recommend a webcam. 

Approximately one week prior to the meeting you’ll receive a personalized link that provides access to:

  • Pre-conference resources
  • Live conference sessions and resources
  • Session recordings and chat streams available for on-demand access after the conference
  • The conference platform several days before the event starts
  • Sponsors and exhibitors in the virtual exhibit hall

Complete your profile as soon as you receive your link, and start connecting with attendees once access to the platform is available. To further encourage networking, and to maintain access to conference sessions, the platform will be available for all attendees through the end of 2020.

Come to this conference like you would any other—open-minded and eager to learn, albeit from the comfort of your home. Although the sessions will be recorded for later viewing, come prepared to interact with the speakers and your colleagues, to get the most bang for your buck. 

First, kick the kids off the wi-fi—they may be slowing your connection. Check that your volume is not muted, and is at an appropriate level. If you still can’t see or hear the presentation, please ask our conference help team for assistance.

The only drawback to a virtual conference is that you can’t load up your pockets with exhibitors’ pens. Fortunately, you can snatch plenty of digital swag, simply by clicking “Exhibit Hall” from the main lobby. Once inside, select the booth you wish to visit. Each booth will be attended by a representative who can answer your questions via live-chat. You can also watch product videos, download digital handouts, and more!

Do you hate traveling and shelling out cash for airfare, hotel rooms, and dining out? By attending our virtual Mid-Year Meeting, you can skip all the typical conference hassle and save on expenses. Other benefits include:

  • Networking with new and old connections from the comfort of your couch
  • Learning pro tips from our Hot Rocks presentations
  • Connecting with colleagues, without hunting them down in a giant conference hall
  • Jumping into panel discussions on hot topics to toss around ideas with colleagues
  • Exploring the virtual exhibit hall to discover cool new products
  • Enjoying a conference around your work schedule—we know it’s impossible to leave the office behind 

Our favorite benefit? Experiencing all the wonders of a conference, right from your own home.