“Why show up to an event?”   

In a post-COVID environment, more people ask that question than previously.

Or more pointedly, “What do I get by going to an event in person that I don’t get from my home/office?” If it’s just information, then a person can absorb that from home in their pajamas.

While it is always challenging to get people out, ELO has successfully organized over 70 events with well over 10,000 attendees since 2005. 

Why do people come to in-person events? We can say conclusively, based on frequent polls over 19 years, that the top reason to attend one of our events is the ability to connect with others. You can only do this by showing up. 

That is why we create an experience at our events that can’t be replicated by watching online. We have all live speakers and opportunities throughout the day to network with the other 150+ attendees.

There is a great mix of presentations and Q&As, with the chance for attendees to have their questions answered by speakers.

Woody Allen, comedian and film director, once said, “90% of life is just showing up!” That’s true. The ELO Forums are a unique opportunity to appear in person, meet others, and build your contact base. 

We have three connecting breaks during the Forum. There is a lunch break, an afternoon coffee break, and then a drinks reception at the end of the event. There is ample opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who attend the ELO Forums.

Despite the obvious benefits of attending an event, not everyone chooses to attend. Yet, one aspect of leadership is making the effort to show up.

Sometimes people are invited but hesitate to come—yet after they have attended, they realize that it was a great event and well worth the time and effort.

People realize that a lack of connections is a significant advantage. So much of life and business is facilitated through relationships. 

Is the connecting worthwhile? Over the years, we have received confirmation that many new relationships were kindled at the ELO Forums. We know that businesspeople have gotten contracts for services resulting in more than $1M in work. Some have even met their future spouses at an ELO Forum!

A key leadership lesson is that connecting and building relationships takes time and effort. While some results may happen quickly—and, indeed, have—it is better to think long-term. Attending an ELO Forum this year will bring you together with other Christians in business to connect, learn, and grow.

Get your tickets and attend a Forum in your city!