If you think conference and immediately think Las Vegas, you’re not alone. Many people make that instant connection, however I am not one of them. For me conferences conjure up thoughts of meeting like-minded people, energy that you can feel and learning so intense you’d have to attend class years to get. While Vegas is fun, I’m here to say that the very best conferences are based on information delivered, not the odds at the Black Jack table.

1. Think Local

Rather than boarding the plane, staying at a hotel and living out of a suitcase, you just might be better off exploring opportunities for local events.

Apart from the obvious, like additional costs, the big reason that I would focus more on local events is to network with people in my own backyard. It only makes sense that those in my hood, so to speak, are better people to get to know. After all there are many reasons that they can provide more valuable resources than the person living far away. Here is a list of just a few:

• Local people are easier to develop and maintain relationships with.

• There’s an opportunity to vary contact more due to their close proximity.

• It’s practically effortless to referral one other.

• Chances are you share common friends, associates and business ties.

• It’s easier to be mutually supportive.

• Attending local events opens doors for co-marketing, co-branding and co-presenting opportunities.

2. Attend at a Higher Level

Right now, I’m focusing on increasing my network close to where I live. I’m volunteering at an event this week. Sharing my expertise with a group of attendees is a great way to increase my network, give back, get noticed, and elevate my status as an expert. Often volunteers are able to attend the event gratis, so there’s a big savings there. Granted, many of the attendees could be visiting from various locations, but in reality that’s not a bad thing, either.

The bottom line here is to get out of the office, meet people and bring them into your "village." Seize the opportunity to expand your network while increasing your chances of success.

3. Realize that They’re not Normal!

The people in the room with you at these events are not the norm. They are the tops in their field, emerging leaders and movers and shakers. If they’re not up there yet, they will be. They are the active, aggressive, serious professionals. They aren’t afraid to take charge of their lives, spend money or go for it. They’re there do deals and they’re not afraid of success. They’re the winners. And YOU definitely want to know these people!

4. Support your Network

Often local conferences are hosted or organized by someone you know or know of. Being seen as a supporter practically fuels growth of the relationship. If you manage the relationship well, you could put together deals in which you both benefit, tap into their network and allow them access to yours. Apart from all this, it’s always a good idea to stimulate the local economy by keeping the money in your community.

5. Attending Conferences is a Winning Idea!

Not matter where you go, what you do and who’s sitting next to you in the room, attending conferences is where it’s at. There is no better way to expand your network, gain valuable information and increase your chances of success.

Unlike Vegas, where it’s always a gamble, attending conferences is a sure thing.