Attendee Checklist | Conference for Community Bankers

Before the Conference

Book Your Flight

• Arrive in time for the conference kickoff – the annual Sunday morning golf outing! Then, join your peers for the conference’s first general session at 2 p.m.

Plan Your Agenda 

• Use the conference app to build your schedule, connect with speakers, network and download conference materials.

Bring or Create Business Cards

• Be prepared for every networking opportunity that comes your way! Bring your business cards or create a digital version using an app such as HiHello, Popl, Linq or Blinq. 

Pack Comfortable Shoes and Layers

• Expect to hit 10,000 steps at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country. Pack comfortable shoes for moving between sessions, and bring a sweater for any chilly conference rooms.

During the Conference

First Things First: Pick Up Your Badge

• Pick up your badge and conference materials upon your arrival. Visit registration on Saturday between 12 PM and 5 PM or Sunday from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM to set yourself up for success. Your badge admits you to all sessions, meals and social events.
• Pro tip: To keep yourself safe, take off your badge when venturing outside the conference hotel.

Post on Social Media Using #ABACCB!

• You know what to do – let the world know you’re here by posting to your favorite social media platforms.

Keep Your Devices Charged

• Feel free to take notes and tweet during sessions! You can use your phone, laptop or iPad to access the free Wi-Fi. Use your devices mindfully, respectfully and silently. 

Keep an Eye on Session Times and Locations 

• The mobile app lists the times and locations for all sessions, receptions and events happening at The Hub.

Session-hop

• You don’t have to stay for the full length of a session. Grab a seat near a door to easily slip in and out without disturbing the speakers or other attendees. Then, catch the rest of another session you find interesting.

Divide and Partner

• It’s not possible to be everywhere at once, so partner with new friends or colleagues and decide in advance who will attend each session. Take notes for each other! Meet up after the sessions – while the content is still fresh – to regroup and discuss. 

Ask Questions 

• Speakers usually reserve time at the end of their sessions for audience questions. Write down any questions in advance so you don’t forget them. When you ask questions, state your name and your institutional affiliation so people can remember you.

Introduce Yourself!

• Networking is a huge part of this conference. Before a session begins, introduce yourself to folks sitting around you. Make a game of it and challenge yourself to meet three new people each day. Be sure to attend the conference networking events, too!

Visit The Hub

• Grab a bite to eat, enter to win prizes and network with peers every time The Hub is open. Learn about the industry’s latest products and services and have some fun.

Register for the 2025 Conference for Community Bankers

• Save some money and take advantage of the onsite registration special when you sign up for next year's conference.

After the Conference

Nourish Your New Connections

• Be sure to follow up with all your new contacts — send a follow-up email or connect with your new friends and peers on social media. 

Complete the Survey

• Let ABA know about your experience at the Conference for Community Bankers. ABA carefully reviews all survey responses as part of planning next year’s conference.