The Women in Retail Leadership Circle team is heads down in final preparations for this year’s Women in Retail Leadership Summit (WIRLS), happening April 27-29 in Miami. This is our 12th annual Summit and much of our team has been involved in this event for years. Therefore, we know a thing or two about how to make the most of your time at this one-of-a-kind three-day experience!

Our team gathered at the office studio to record our advice for Summit attendees. If you’re a first-time attendee or returning after a few years away, you’ll want to take note to maximize your time at the event.

Play the video above to hear from our team of Summit experts as they share what they wish they knew before their first Women in Retail Leadership Summit!

A few pieces of advice include:

  • Be open to networking from the very start. Women in Retail Leadership Circle is built around connection and community, so sit at different tables, introduce yourself to people you don’t know, and take advantage of every moment to connect, learn, and build relationships over meals, sessions and activities.
  • Build in white space. Don’t overbook yourself. Make time to linger, sit down with someone new, and follow up before you even leave. The real magic of WIRLS happens in the unscripted conversations and introductions.
  • Be in the moment. Be as present as possible. It’s hard to unplug, but try to disconnect as much as you can. Don’t let your inbox distract you from the conversations and energy happening around you.
  • Trust the experience. If you come needing growth, the sessions will absolutely revive you. If you’re craving connection, the activations and networking opportunities open so many doors. And if you want the full, holistic experience, just show up open and let the Summit do its thing. WIRLS really meets you exactly where you are.

We cannot wait to welcome this community of incredible women in retail to Miami for our sold-out Leadership Summit. See you soon!