Surviving BIBA – tops tips from AXA Commercial’s Director of Schemes & Delegated Authorities

Surviving BIBA – tops tips from AXA Commercial’s Director of Schemes & Delegated Authorities

By: Joel Markham

With the BIBA conference fast approaching, I thought I’d share some tips and advice on how to survive the two-day marathon. It’s the biggest general insurance event in the UK calendar and is always worth attending, but for first timers – and even seasoned BIBA goers – it can be somewhat daunting.

Firstly, in my experience it’s overly warm in the conference hall and you’ll be on your feet all day so dress for comfort. I’ve long since swapped my smart work shoes for trainers – don’t worry, everyone else does the same so you won’t look out of place! And make sure you stay hydrated, especially if you plan to attend any of the evening drink receptions – more on this later.

Checking bags in and out of the cloakroom can be slow work – expect a long queue. Make sure you factor this in when you’re rushing to get your train home. Manchester Piccadilly is about a 15-minute walk so give yourself plenty of time, otherwise you’ll be battling with others to grab a cab. I speak from bitter experience!

It’s tempting to pack your day with back-to-back meetings, but I’d recommend leaving 50 per cent of your time to attend presentations in the auditorium and wander round the stands. Apart from the endless merchandise on offer (take a BIG bag with you), there’s the opportunity to meet new people and listen to interesting ideas from industry experts.

It’s not just about networking with people you already know – that spontaneous chat with someone new could prove really fruitful. And to that effect, here’s my biggest tip. If you collect business cards throughout the event, make sure you write on the back what you discussed with the person in question. There’s nothing more frustrating (and useless!) than an array of names and numbers with no context!

And so to the drinks receptions… Make sure you accept invitations and drop by – you’re not expected to stay all evening and it’s a great way to get access to some senior stakeholders who usually attend their company’s events. When else will you have the opportunity to get in front of that CEO you’d love to chat with?

If last year is a barometer, there’s one event you definitely need an invite to – the MGAA drinks reception. It was the talk of the town!

Lastly, make sure you take time to enjoy the experience – and pop by to say hello, we’re on stand E40.