Follow up after the conference and film festival with those you've met. My friend Christine Reynolds took our advice --"Never eat alone" -- to heart when she went to Sundance last January. As a volunteer, she was able to gain access to many of the events at the festival. She also had a parking pass which came in handy when she transported festival goers from one point to another. Some of her passengers were film producers, actors and other volunteers. She stayed in contact with those she gave a lift to, and they want to return the favor by giving her a lift in her career and new business.

6. Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking at any conference, trade show or film festival. Be sure you are in top shape and be prepared to do a lot of walking. (See point 2)

7. Know your limits. Don't party all night. Limit your alcohol consumption. Whenever you are at a trade show, conference or convention, you are surrounded by potential employers or colleagues. Don't do anything you'll regret later or that will impact your career in a negative way.

Keep your purpose in mind throughout the festival, conference, convention or trade show. Be open to other opportunities as well. Make connections with others who have similar interests to you. Have fun, use your time wisely, meet some new people and I'm sure you'll benefit greatly from any event you attend.

Pamela Kleibrink Thompson is a recruiter, career coach, speaker and writer. She has a huge collection of business cards from various conferences and conventions. One of her goals is to get all the information entered in her computer so she can keep in contact with everyone. You can reach her for recruiting, speaking engagements, career coaching or resume revamps at PamRecruit@q.com.Her "Career Coach" column can be read at http://mag.awn.com. Her Linkedin profile can be found at http://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelathompson. She presented the commencement address at Art Institute of Tampa last month.