CAP Spring Break 2007 is just around the corner!  PokerAffiliateWorld.com is proud to be a media sponsor of this much anticipated event.  Atttendance should be over 200 affiliates for this event.

As if hanging out at a posh resort like The Atlantis was not enough, our friends at CAP will also be hosting the Affiliate Series of Poker. PAW's very own Jeremy Enke will be playing in this prestigous event and hoping to make it past the first blind level!

Now, whether you have been to Spring Break or not, below is a fantastic article by Greg Powell from www.amcoaffiliates.com on how to get the most out of your trip.  Thanks for the contribution Greg, great article!

 

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CAP Spring Break 2007

 
“A beginner’s guide to making contacts and adding value to your trip”

By Greg Powell 
Affiliate Manager
 www.amcoaffiliates.com

  

The time has come for all gaming affiliates to crawl out from behind their computers and make their way into the real world of socializing with people. It may come as a surprise to some not involved in the gaming industry that real people are actually behind the scenes making transactions and performing business functions daily to allow players from around the world to play poker and casino games online. On rare occasions these people actually meet each other and discuss their business while making new contacts and arranging deals. One such occasion is Casino Affiliate Program’s annual Spring Break.

 

 

It’s always best to take a week or so making some pre-event plans such as meetings and booking a hotel room. (note: Greg Powell has yet to book a room and the event starts in 72 hours) When you are working through the schedule online find times when you are going to be free and speak with at the least the top three programs you’re site is invested in and try to arrange a time to sit down and talk. Always ask for something special from them, as you will have a much closer connection with your respective program once the formal handshake, business card exchange and cocktails are ordered. If you’re about to leave and you have just a meeting or two arranged don’t fret – most of the great connections at conferences are made when you are just standing around and get introduced. (side note: contrary to popular belief you do not always have to wear a branded shirt/hat at the conference. While this does help affiliate managers out quite a lot it’s not a must)

 

 

When you arrive at the destination (in this case the always affordable Atlantis resort) make sure you check in and then head to your room. It’s best to get all squared away before trying to jump right into the mix. Also if something comes up and you are not registered this gives you ample time to get everything sorted out before the action begins. Personally, I have been to more than a few conferences where affiliates are supposedly registered and mysteriously have vanished from the list. Back to Step 1 – take second to collect some cell phone numbers before you leave in case this happens.

 

 

I always love CAP Spring Break because it’s free for the affiliates to attend the actual sessions. There is another gaming conference (which won’t be mentioned) that charges affiliates who are not sponsored to attend. This seems a little odd to me for a few reason (another post on this to follow after June 12^th). However, new affiliates and season veterans alike should take some time (and some notes) during the sessions. There will be a nice talk on SEO and gaming laws which will also feature a question and answer portion that is really insightful. (Side Note: This is another great time to drink much water and ask yourself important questions like. “Why did I feel it was ok to drink my age in free beers?”) Honestly, take some notes and make sure if you are going to sport a branded shirt this is the time to do so.

 

 

Personally I don’t feel these are the most important part of the trip. (Borat Voice-over: Not) The parties are a great place to socialize and see that people do not really look like their avatars in real life. (Side Note: Greg Powell doesn’t really resemble an Anime action character like represented on Poker Affiliate World although he would like too) Besides that you can really get a nice chance to meet people involved in all aspects of the gaming industry. Affiliate Managers especially enjoy the opportunity to sit back and relax with their partners and make some great new contacts. Affiliates really should bring business cards to the parties as well as a pen. Personally I feel like some of my best affiliate connections as well as new friendships have been made taking a few hours a year to share a drink and trade stories at gaming event parties. Also, be sure to thank the party sponsors for taking the time and money to make these possible.

 

My favorite part of every conference is seeing who is behind the messages. Call me crazy but I am surprised every time I meet someone at a CAC, CAP or GIGSE and they are nothing like what I had expected. (think Nick from CardsChat.com here)

 

Looking forward to seeing everyone in the Bahamas, if you can make it plan on attending at least one event this year. I think its and invaluable experience for affiliates and managers alike.