2 Days of Content, Search, Social, and Food Trucks
Bag packed
Phone charger
Comfortable shoes
I’m ready for #stateofsearch— Clara Mathews (@ClarabelaMedia) November 14, 2016
That’s how I prepared myself for the first day of the State of Search conference. The annual 2-day event was held in Dallas, TX at Gilly’s.
The weather was lovely, with sunny skies perfect for sitting on the outdoor patios to network, mingle, and enjoy the magnificent view of downtown Dallas. You can never be sure of the parking situation in and around downtown Dallas, so I decided to ride with Lyft to the annual State of Search Conference.
Anyone will tell you that a good conference runs on caffeine. This year we had plenty of coffee (and tea) and a cappuccino bar. Lisa from Priceless Catering was back again this year providing the attendees with a yummy breakfast that included fresh-made fruit smoothies, warm crustless mini quiches, and fresh fruit salad.
A great way to start off the day.
View from the stage at the Elevation breakfast this morning as people were coming in. #StateofSearch pic.twitter.com/UnKAPz15oh
— Kelsey Jones (@wonderwall7) November 16, 2016
State of Search Day 1
The agenda was so packed with interesting speakers, it was hard to choose which sessions to attend. Here are a few highlights from State of Search:
The day started with the Opening Keynote by Danny Sullivan. These were a few
Exclusivity Marketing: Sean Jackson (Copyblogger)
Key Takeaways – What I Learned
What do a $300,000 Ferrari, the $234,000 Rolex Submariner watch, and a prime parking space in Manhattan have in common?
- They are unique…one-of-a-kind
- They are expensive…not everyone will be able to own them.
- And they are exclusive. They are in limited supply.
Sean helped us see that the value of being exclusive as a product or service provider will help build our business. And most importantly make more money! Don’t believe in the value of exclusivity? Ask yourself why people stand in line for the latest iPhone or pay hundreds of dollars for table service or VIP Access restaurants and nightclubs.
To Create and Promote Epic Brand Stories
Casey Markee (Media Wyse)
The Art & Science of Brand/Community Building with Visuals
Matt Stitla
Happy Hour
After a long day of learning about all things search, social, and mobile, we headed upstairs to The Loft to relax and get down to music from XXX. After a few drinks, it was Karaoke time. No…not me! I was happy to sit on the balcony and meet some of the other attendees.
[IG Video]
State of Search – Day 2
Elevation Breakfast
View from the stage at the Elevation breakfast this morning as people were coming in. #StateofSearch pic.twitter.com/UnKAPz15oh
— Kelsey Jones (@wonderwall7) November 16, 2016
I think this may have been one of my favorite sessions. The panel discussion featured Maile Ohye, Purna Virji, Kelsey Jones, and Jennifer Slegg and focused on the role of women in the industry.
Key Takeaways – What I Learned
- Don’t be afraid to speak at a conference
- Write, blog and guest post more
- Be proactive
Clara Mathews is a website content copywriter for hospitality and service-based businesses. You can find Clara at