This year, I’ve gotten a sneak peak at the inner workings of #CMF11 and all it takes to pull this amazing forum together.  As I’m sure you can imagine – it’s a lot!

But amidst all the hustle and bustle, endless emails and phone calls and documents flying through cyberspace, I still have perspective enough to be excited about this year’s gathering.

Here are just a few reasons why:

Great Content. Have you checked out this year’s program?  It’s been updated several times, so be sure to take a look.  A topic near and dear to my own heart, social media, seems to be on your minds as well.  In our preconference survey (be sure to fill yours out if you haven’t already), our social media sessions seem like they’ll be packed this year.  We have two breakout sessions on social media, one led by Kami Watson-Huyse and one led by Suzanne Zurn and Seema Bhende from Waggener Edstrom.  In addition, we have a powerful discussion on Location Based (Cause) Marketing led by Joe Waters.

Intriguing Discussion. As always, I’m interested to hear with which topics people are grappling.  New models for recruiting partners?   Handling delicate situations?  Being too successful out of the gate?  Debating the merits of Facebook “Like-baiting” campaigns?  What’s your hot topic?

A Chance to Get Your Opinion. This will be my first year asking each of you one question:  What can the Cause Marketing Forum do to better serve your needs?  Plan to hear me ask this early and often.  And, really!  We do want your feedback.  Drop by the CMF booth and jot down topics you’d like to hear for future TeleConferences or other ideas you have about how we can support you in your important work.

The People. It always comes down to the people.  People I’ve met before and people I can’t wait to me “in real life” based upon virtual relationships.  Who are you psyched to meet?

Here are a few tips for getting ready for #CMF11 – many of you have attended this conference longer than I, so please add your tips in the comments!

Have an Objective. What are you trying to learn/accomplish at #CMF11?  Go into the conference with this objective clearly in mind.  If you have a burning question, ask it – often and to as many people as you can.

Network. Attend the Receptions, sit with strangers at meals, introduce yourself to someone new.  Don’t just stick with the usual suspects.

Arrive a Little Early. Registration will open at 4:30 on Wednesday, June 1.  The opening reception begins at 5:30.  Come pick up your packet, familiarize yourself with the sessions, the attendees and the hotel.

Connect. We’ll have ample opportunities to check in, tweet, upload photos.  Don’t be shy!  Join in the fun.  Just dipping your toe into Twitter or Location-Based Services?  Ask around for help and give it a shot.  Already an expert?  Help someone else get up to speed.

Please share your #CMF11 tips and tricks in the comments.  Can’t wait to see all of you in Chicago in a few short weeks!