Hint: It’s more than just showing up.

Let’s face it, real estate professionals are constantly investing in their growth. Whether it’s a conference, webinar, mastermind, or in-person training, we love to learn. But what really makes the difference isn’t what you attend, it’s what you do with what you learned.

Here’s how to make sure you walk away with more than just a tote bag and a stack of business cards:

1. Go in With a Game Plan

Before the event even starts, ask yourself:

- What do I want to learn?

- What systems or challenges do I want to improve?

- Who do I want to meet?

Review the schedule, pick your sessions intentionally, and leave room for networking or even rest time if it’s a multi-day event.

2. Pack With Purpose

Bring what you need to stay organized and connected:

- Notebook or digital note app (Goodnotes, etc.)

- Business cards

- Chargers and backups

- Water, snacks, and comfy shoes (because let’s be real)

3. Take Notes Like a Pro

This isn’t school so don’t write everything down. Focus on:

- Key ideas and “aha” moments

- Action items you want to implement

- Systems or tools you want to research later

- People you meet and how you plan to follow up

- Use symbols or color codes to separate “important” from “implement this now!”

4. Turn Notes Into Action

After the event, don’t let your notes collect dust. Take time to:

- Review and organize them

- Calendar time for implementation

- Delegate items to your team

- Recap your takeaways with your rainmaker or accountability partner

- Add new contacts to your CRM and follow up intentionally

- Bonus tip: Upload your notes into AI tools (like ChatGPT) to help you create checklists, emails, trainings, or implementation timelines.

5. Share What You Learned

Whether it’s a team huddle, a short video recap, or a Loom to your database manager, you don’t keep the good stuff to yourself. Sharing reinforces your own learning and brings value to your team.

Remember: The goal isn’t just to take good notes – it is to create great results. So next time you head into a training or conference, go in prepared and come out powerful.