The world of industry events is a busy one; it can seem like there isn’t a week goes by that isn’t filled with a conference for one thing or another and we can become numb to why they exist and the benefits that they provide. In reality, conferences are one of the most beneficial career development tools available to us. Our conference, the University Market Insight Conference, is one of the only events dedicated to market insight and research within higher education, which means it’s a must-attend event for professionals in that industry. But in case you need reminding about what some of the benefits of attending are we’ve put together what we think are the 5 key reasons to attend this year’s conference:

1. Develop your skills and knowledge with leading industry speakers

Unlike many conferences, UMIC dedicates the second day of its event to workshops, offering delegates the chance to develop their skills and knowledge. These workshops are hosted by experts working in higher education institutions or market insight organisations and provide opportunities to understand how knowledge can be applied to situations faced on a daily basis across the sector. Unlike the plenary sessions, there is more scope for interaction and discussion, which can often spark ideas and innovative thinking that may not have otherwise come up.

2. Stay on top of the latest trends in Higher Education

Higher education is constantly evolving; key elements such as student recruitment are frequently being influenced by both internal and external factors, such as funding cuts, course availability, or societal and economic affairs. With that in mind sessions at the conference will take the latest data available and pick out the key trends to factor in when working with your institution. Keeping up to date with these trends can help you gain an advantage in a competitive market and help your institution remain relevant.

3. Networking with peers from across the UK

Networking has always been one of the biggest reasons to attend conferences, but with all the events of the last few years, it has become even more desirable than ever. As one of the only events dedicated to market insight and research within higher education, we know that networking at our event offers a rare opportunity for professionals in our industry to come together and discuss common issues and share best practices.  And it’s not just networking with other delegates; there are also opportunities for attendees to chat to speakers and HE insight experts, offering the chance to pick their brains on a one-to-one level and build personal connections that they may be able to call on later. 

4. Share problems and discuss solutions

One of the greatest opportunities that networking with colleagues in your discipline provides is the chance to share the issues and challenges you face. Often it can feel that you face problems on your own, but to learn that you are not alone can be hugely beneficial. Other people may have innovative solutions to offer to help you overcome them that you may not have thought of before. This kind of peer-to-peer problem-solving is invaluable and helps not only your institution but the industry as a whole grow and move forward.   

 5. Visit The Times and the Sunday Times Modern University of the Year 2023

Nottingham Trent University has recently been through quite a period of growth, resulting in it being awarded this prestigious accolade; a subject which our keynote speaker, NTU Vice-Chancellor, and President, Prof. Edward Peck, will no doubt discuss. We know that everyone thinks their university is the best, but often it can be useful to visit other universities and learn about what they are doing to see how you can grow your own institution.

If you haven’t already booked your ticket you can do so via our conference site. This year we are offering delegates the chance to bring a colleague with our buy-one-get-one-half price ticket option. Discounts are also available for HEMRF & HESPA members. Get in touch if you have any questions.