First-Time Attendee Guide
There's no one right way to attend the Symposium, nor is there a set schedule everyone must follow. You should attend the Symposium with the plan to make connections, learn and have fun.
This overview was developed to help make your first Symposium experience productive and rewarding.
Networking
Symposium attendees have consistently said that the networking opportunities are one of the reasons they attend every year. How can you make the most of these opportunities?
Here are some ideas to get you started.
- Participate in Symposium Sidekick. The Society will pair you with a seasoned Symposium attendee. This is a great way to meet someone before you leave for San Diego. Additional information about this great option will be sent in Summer 2027.
- Look for others wearing the same ribbons you are and find out what you have in common. The Symposium has many "fun" ribbons to also help you express your personal interests.
- Use #27SYMP in social media postings from the conference. This allows you to connect with others who are attending and participate in the backchannel discussion.
Over 95%
of Symposium attendees say this program meets or exceeds their educational needs.
Events
First-Time Attendee Meet and Greet (Special Invitation)
Sunday, September 19, 2:00-3:00 p.m. Join ISCEBS volunteers to learn more about the Symposium and meet others right
away! You'll get a high-level overview of what to expect when you're at the Symposium. Please let us know if you'll be able to attend!
48th Annual CEBS Conferment Ceremony and Reception
See what it's all about! All Symposium attendees are invited to attend the CEBS Conferment Ceremony and Reception on Sunday, September 19 beginning at 5:00 p.m. New graduates of the CEBS program are recognized for their achievements.
Monday Luncheon Roundtables
Roundtables focus on a variety of topics. Choose one that interests you and benefit from the exchange of information AND getting to know others! Of course, you can always select a "nontopic" table and enjoy the conversation there.
Monday Welcome Reception
This reception (after sessions) is a great time to relax, enjoy appetizers and refreshments, meet new people and share
takeaways from the first day's sessions! New attendees are eligible for a special prize drawing!
Sign and Dine
Sign and dine opportunities on Sunday and Tuesday evenings, hosted by the local ISCEBS chapter, give you the chance to see the sights and sample some of the area's excellent cuisine at unique restaurants. Sign up in the registration area. Each attendee pays for their own meal. And each restaurant will provide individual bills, making it easier to pay.
Tuesday Professional Recognition Luncheon
This luncheon (12:15 to 1 :30 p.m.) recognizes and honors recent inductees into the ISCEBS Hall of Fame as well as attendees who are CEBS Compliant. All Symposium attendees and speakers are invited to attend.
MVP (Most Valuable Papers!) Envelope
Pick this up when you arrive at the registration desk. It contains everything you need on site.
- Your name badge: Make sure you wear this throughout the Symposium.
- Welcome Reception drink tickets: You'll receive two complimentary beverage tickets for the Monday night event.
- Green continuing education (CE) cards.· If you requested continuing education credits, these cards need to be turned in after each session you attend. If you need credits in a specific area (e.g., insurance), there will be additional instructions about which sessions you need to attend. If you don't see this information, you can ask about it at the registration desk. If you forgot to request CE on your registration, that's OK; contact the Society at (262) 786-8771.
- White attendance cards. Are you a CEBS grad? Use these bar-coded tickets for your CEBS Compliance credit. These cards must be turned in after each session attended.
- Ribbons: Available as an icebreaker! Stop by the Conversation Corner and get some additional fun ribbons based on your likes and interests to add to your name badge. The Conversation Corner is a quiet area to sit and chat with other attendees, check emails or just relax between sessions.
Who will you meet?
You'll see that Symposium attendees come from a variety of professions and have a broad range of experience. Meet people who represent single employers and multiemployers and those who work with public plans. They are benefits professionals, insurance representatives, brokers and consultants, HR professionals, administrators, accountants, attorneys and auditors.
Attendees range from early professionals to seasoned employees.
10%
0-10 years
of experience
28%
11-20 years
experience
52%
21 or more years
of experience
Over 40%
have attended five or more Symposiums, so you will be in good hands with many "veterans" available to help or answer questions.
Symposium Sidekick
This optional initiative pairs first-time attendees with a more experienced Symposium attendee to provide professional connections and guidance during the conference. Indicate your interest, answer a few questions about yourself and what your "ideal experience" would be, and the Society will match you with your Sidekick. Many Sidekick participants connect before the Symposium and make plans to meet up before sessions begin. It's a great way to "know" someone before the Symposium even begins!
Additional information about this great program will be sent to registrants in Summer 2027.
Use Social Media
Start making connections with other attendees now! Utilize your social networks to let others know you'll be at the Symposium this September. Update your Linkedln connections by sharing what sessions you're most excited to attend. Publish an update and make sure to use our conference hashtag #27SYMP-You'll likely get a few more followers!
A sample update/tweet can be:
Can't wait to attend the #27SYMP in San Diego! Looking forward to 2½ days of #benefits #education. www.iscebs.org/symposium
At the Symposium, make sure to post updates on your positive experience! We love to see our attendees talking about their favorite sessions, tagging who they met/connected with and more. And take photos! Share your photos with the hashtag.
Symposium FAQS
What is a typical day like at the Symposium?
Each day includes a continental breakfast, educational sessions, beverage breaks, a seated lunch (Monday and Tuesday), networking and social events, and time to browse the sponsor display tables.
What is appropriate attire for the Symposium?
Dress for the Symposium is business casual. The conference rooms may get chilly; dressing in layers is recommended. The CEBS Conferment Ceremony and Reception on Sunday, September 19 are business dress. All attendees are invited to the Conferment and Reception.
I noticed there are several tracks at the Symposium-How does this work?
You may attend any session that meets your personal and professional development needs. We don't require you to stay in one track for the entire Symposium. Attendees like the ability to jump tracks and attend a variety of sessions. If you requested CE credit for licensing, make sure to attend the sessions indicated in your registration envelope.
What is on the Symposium mobile app?
In a word-everything ! Not only are session handouts available in the app, but you can also make notes and
highlight right on each PDF. Information on speakers and attendees as well as a customizable daily schedule are all available on the Symposium conference app. No matter how you choose to access the information-tablet or smartphone-or what brand you own, the app will keep you connected to the Symposium. Download information will be provided to alI attendees.
Will I need to pay for Wi-Fi?
Complimentary Wi-Fi in guest rooms and meeting rooms is sponsored by Marsh. Access information will be provided in your MVP envelope.
I want to be sure I return to my job with valuable relevant information for my company and colleagues. What can I expect to take away from this conference?
Symposium attendees have noted that this conference provides "applicable, targeted information on current issues." Expect to hear a lot about the latest trends in health care and strategies for retirement readiness.
Many speakers attend the full conference and are available after their sessions for questions and further conversation. You'll also have the opportunity to view some recorded sessions with colleagues after the conference. Don't forget to stop by the sponsor displays. They contain valuable collateral explaining what those companies can do to help make your job easier.
What are some healthy choice opportunities at the Symposium
There will be ample opportunities to stay hydrated throughout the day. If you have special dietary needs-such as a gluten-free diet or vegan meals-please email the Society at [email protected] so we can make arrangements on your behalf.
Is there anything to do before the Symposium?
Yes! Check out www.iscebs.org/symposiumtours for sightseeing options on Saturday and Sunday.