The last time I went to an adult webmaster show, it was a mess. Part of the problem was self-inflicted, part of it wasn't. I waited too long to reserve my room and was only able to book for two nights instead of my usual three. That extra day made of buttload of difference. Another reason why I had trouble reserving a three-night stay had to do with the timing of the show. It was held on probably the busiest convention day of that year for the host city. Thee were at least five separate conventions being held in the same venue as my show. Busy, confusing, maddening and obnoxious are just some of the modifiers that come to mind when I think of that damned crowd. As a result, for me, that show was a waste of time and money.

"Adult Internet events and conventions are intoxicating. Staying focused is hard. Don't drop the ball when you drop the dollars to attend an industry gathering. Keep your eyes on the prize."

I don't know about you but I am a poor webmaster. Sure, I make a very nice living but I am by no means rich or even wealthy. I can't afford to go to every convention, gathering and show on the calendar. I'm lucky if I make one a year. I like to get the most bang for my buck when I decide to pack my bags and leave my family so I can fly on a plane to another city. Yes, the shows are exciting, the parties are swell and the freebies are the best. But I come to have long talks, pick genius brains and meet new people. I might hit a party or two but if I don't get a chance to sit down with another webmaster and hear their story, I feel as if I've failed.

I have my mission when I go to shows. Do you have a mission? Granted, there's lot of fun to be had and a bunch of skin to gawk at but is that all you intend to achieve, some blurry memories of boobs and free vodka? Did you know these shows host seminars with smart speakers who give speeches about legal issues, new technologies and valuable marketing insight? Did you take a good look at the guy giving away the free t-shirts from that cool booth on the show floor? Did you realize that was the owner of the company? Did you take some time to shake his hand or did you run off to the next booth, looking for schwag? You know that couple you shared the elevator with at your hotel? They were wearing show badges. Did you say hello? Maybe hand out a business card? Sure, that karaoke contest floor is lame but were you aware that people who participate in those lame content get their photos and names plastered all over adult industry sites and publications?

When you plan to go to an adult webmaster convention, have a plan. Outline a purpose. Define your objective for the journey. Adopt a show focus.

Are you new? Are you a veteran that's just never attended webmaster event? Is your memory of the last show a little hazy except for hose embarrassing pics of you passed out by the elevators? Whatever your past experience, this time map out a game plan before you arrive at your destination.

It is so not hard to clue into the scheduled events that take place at an adult webmaster show. Practically all the shows have websites. One of the smartest things you can do is register (in advance) from your chosen show site. That way you can skip the long line at the floor entrance. What's better about convention sites is that they serve pages and pages of information about the venue, the host city and the scheduled activities, seminars and parties. You can also read additional information on the sites of companies sponsoring the activities, seminars and parties. There's no excuse not to know what's going on before you get there. Read, learn and plan your itinerary accordingly.

Why are you going? You're the only one who knows so why don't you let yourself in on the secret? Is there someone you want to meet? Is there a seminar that looks promising? Is your intention to absorb as much as you can in the time you have afforded? Then get to cracking on a plan. How many days? Does each day have a mission? How many nights? Which parties will have the kind of crowd that can do you the most benefit?

Adult Internet events and conventions are intoxicating. It's quite uplifting to be among so many who understand and accept you for what you do. At the same time, the atmosphere is positively bacchanalian. Breasts and butts wiggle all around and bawdiness abounds. There are plenty of shiny things to look at and to take home in your shiny, free goody bag. Distraction is easy. Staying focused is hard. Don't drop the ball when you drop the dollars to attend an industry gathering. Keep your eyes on the prize. You can do a lot of good for your image and career at a show. Map out a plan. Have a purpose. Stay in Show Focus!