Customize Your Experience: A Preview of the 2022 Convention in Chicago

The CREW Network Convention is coming to Chicago, Sept. 21-23, and CREW members are eager to meet in-person as we look forward to three days of an action-packed agenda. There are some excellent keynote speakers lined up, including award-winning journalist and storyteller Lisa Ling. In addition to larger sessions, the Convention also offers Breakouts, Peer Exchanges, and Conversation Corners—smaller, more intimate sessions that allow you to customize your experience for the specific industry information and professional connections you need.

Here are five things that CREW Network Conventions are well-known for:

1. Business – It is often said but still bears repeating: “There are no cold calls in CREW.” The Convention is an incredible opportunity to build business relationships with more than 1,200 CRE professionals in attendance. You can even use the CREW Network app to view the attendee list, plan meet-ups in advance, connect with new contacts onsite, and store private networking notes to help you remember conversations and ideas for when you get back home.

2. Knowledge – Receive the latest information on key CRE trends and innovative projects in the industry. Keynote Speaker and world-renowned economist and financial expert Marci Rossell, former CNBC Chief Economist, will provide an insider’s perspective on the economy on Thursday, Sept. 22. Book a Learning Excursion to explore innovative Chicago projects and attractions, and fill up your schedule by choosing from smaller sessions designed to meet your individual needs. Just as our membership comes from diverse backgrounds, there is guaranteed to be a session that supports your specialty and grows your knowledge base, helping you to work smarter.

3. Connections – From programmed sessions to Dine-Arounds and Learning Excursions, you will meet so many new professionals from a variety of CRE sectors—and everyone you meet is a potential contact for new business, leads, referrals, and friendship. Connections have even been made on planes heading to CREW Network events! 

4. Support – Find your CREW. Whether you are a company leader looking for others in similar roles to brainstorm ideas or new to the industry searching for mentors in your field, you can find them all at the Convention. It is also an opportunity to put a face with a name for all the CREW Network staff who support members and chapters across the globe.

5. Leadership Training – The Convention offers leadership training that is relevant for attendees at any stage in their careers. Mega Sessions on Thursday, Sept. 22, include topics on developing leaders, creating cultures of belonging, and engaging employees in the workplace, and there are several other sessions for attendees to engage in leadership best practice exchange.

After you register, make sure to explore the full agenda in advance, build your schedule, start planning meetups, and make the most of your experience. In addition to the five things above, there are also a couple standout events that happen annually at Convention that you absolutely don’t want to miss:

• Opening Night Marketplace and Welcome Reception – Your registration includes two drink tickets and heavy hors d’oeuvres for this kick-off evening event. Stop by to thank CREW Network Partners, make new connections, re-connect with friends, and enter to win booth door-prizes (if you are lucky). 
• CREW Network Foundation Fundraiser – Step back in time with your CREW to 1920s Chicago in this event, with all proceeds benefitting the Foundation. This year’s theme is Roaring 20s Revelry, to be held in the Stan Mansion, a former Masonic lodge originally built in 1923. Purchase tickets, explore event underwriting opportunities, and prepare your best flapper attire!

_{L: Attendees enjoying the Marketplace and Welcome Reception in Las Vegas. R: Members raising funds for scholarships and career outreach during the 2022 Foundation Fundraiser.} 

We hope to see you in Chicago in September, making new business connections and feeling the energy and power of CREW!