Because I go and present at a lot of conferences, it’s especially important to adhere to conference rules, but also establish some sort of personal and professional code of conduct.
This allows other attendees, sponsors (including potential sponsors), and event organizers to know what my stance is on several issues.
Anti-Harrassment Policy for Conferences
I, Nile Flores of Blondish.net do not condone harassment of any type during a conference event. My intentions are to be friendly, welcoming, inclusive, and promote positive behavior.
Examples of harrassment that will not be tolerated:
- Sexual harassment, whether it is gender or sexual preference
- Racist comments or acts of racism
- Belittlement of physical or mental disabilities
If such behavior is witnessed, I will inform the event organizers. I will also encourage the victim to approach the organizers.
Policy Against Suitcasing Conference Events
Suitcasing is the act of handing out materials to sell or promote a sponsor not approved by the event organizers. It’s most common when a blogger is sponsored to the event. This can happen at the event, or on social media.
I do receive sponsors, but am allowed to pass out information within reason. I choose to bring print material that my session attendees can download from my own website, and only upon that material will contain any sponsors because it is on my own website. I will still mention sponsors on social media as a thank you, but within reason, and not as a means to excessively hijack the event’s social network hashtag stream.