Working in the world of the 11th continent is absolutely enthralling! There are always new things to learn and old news to catch up on. For me, educating other people who aren’t “in the know” about search marketing and sharing what I learn really gets me going. So, you can only imagine how ecstatic I was when I found out that my company was going to sponsor a trip for me to attend Pubcon 2007, especially because I knew it was in Las Vegas: the worst place for all of us industry folk with self-diagnosed ADD to gather and be distracted by the bright flashing lights, never ending sounds of people losing money on the slots and the extreme desire to blow last month’s paycheck at the blackjack table; but, really, the best place for all of us creative types to network, learn and enjoy the conversations with which we all so love to bore those who don’t really care.

Pubcon started back in the late 80’s as a group where industry-minded people would meet and discuss related news, discoveries and techniques at the local pub - hence the name Pubcon. Over the years, Pubcon has expanded. This year’s conference was a success with thousands in attendance. All of the biggest names in the industry shared their knowledge, experiences and personal stories of success. Pubcon is not just for those who are experienced, though. Whether you are new to the industry like me or a seasoned veteran, there is a place for you there. There are webmasters, search marketers, program managers, affiliates and even client side attendees there to gain knowledge of how to better run their online store, increase their brand recognition online or just learn about search marketing and social media in general.

At Pubcon, the inspiration was limitless. I highly recommend to all of you in the industry that you attend Pubcon next year. If not Pubcon, there is also SES, OMS, SXSW, and SMX.

And for those folks who want to keep it kinda local to Houston, here’s a list of other communities to check out/join:

• BarCamp Texas -January 26th, 27th
• BarCamp New Orleans - February 16th, 17th - This one is really special because it is the first time the tech community in New Orleans has really gotten together to help re-establish/re-build the technology sector in the city since Hurricane Katrina.
• BarCamp Austin/SXSW III - Not officially announced yet…
• Refresh Houston
• NetSquared
• Air Houston

Why Should I Get Involved?

• To be known, and to get known - make great contacts
• To learn - now there’s a novel idea
• To share your ideas